Finding childcare in Kansas is difficult. The group “Child Care Aware of Eastern Kansas” estimates that about 153,000 children in Kansas need child care; but, only 74,000 spots are available statewide. Kansas lost about 800 family care homes during the pandemic and those that remain open are now struggling to hire workers. Fewer facilities and a smaller workforce has some places completely booked for a year. A lack of available spots is preventing some parents from re-entering the workforce.
If a family can’t find someone to watch their child, they have to stay home. The issue can be especially serious in Rural Kansas. Rural communities often have very few childcare options and if one or two providers close, it has a huge impact. Some communities are looking into pooling resources and applying for Grant money.
