US parents rely on wider support networks for childcare

A nationwide poll of 2,000 parents of children aged 0 to 6 reveals that 71% believe raising children today requires a wider circle of trust than previous generations. The research, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of The Goddard School, highlights the increasing reliance on external support systems for child well-being.

Approximately 82% of parents utilize some form of childcare, including immediate family (43%), friends (25%), early childhood education providers (24%), traditional daycares (19%), and nannies or babysitters (14%). The study notes that childcare is a critical factor for workforce participation; 90% of dual-income households reported working out of necessity.

Furthermore, the availability of childcare significantly impacts employment: 27% of those using providers stated a parent would need to reduce work hours without them, 26% said a parent would have to leave the workforce entirely, and 35% indicated both parents would need to adjust their schedules.