It’s no real surprise that analysts view that the lack of affordable, reliable and quality daycare will be a serious issue when more people return to work during the next few months. This is a societal issue already and will be even more of a concern during the pandemic. Now, one has to add in the additional safeguards that daycare centres and providers will have to have in place to prevent any outbreak of coronavirus cases among staff and children. With the gradual reopening of small businesses, many owners and their employees have already highlighted that those with young children believe that the return to normal will take longer because of a shortage of affordable childcare.
In addition, the need for daily childcare is further complicated by the fact that early indications are that schools may have to rotate the school days to accommodate physical distancing requirements. There will be fewer school days available, with on-line learning at home making up the difference. This means that families will have to provide for childcare when their children are not in school during the week. It’s not everyone that can rely on immediate family for assistance during this period. For many low income parents, working only a couple of days a week and caring for children on the other days may not be feasible. Near or below the poverty line, they need full-time work in order to provide for the necessities in an era of increasing housing and food costs.
There are huge implications for women in particular, especially low income single mothers, who risk being edged out of the workplace. There hasn’t been enough recognition for the struggle that women and single parents are facing right now with the reopening of businesses. Governments at all levels need to recognize their struggle and provide support to families. This situation appears to be an ideal time for society to reevaluate the availability of affordable childcare and the need for a real national childcare strategy. After all, what could be more important than provisions to ensure the safety, health and socialization of our children.
FROLITICKS 