workforce participation rate since 1988. In Oklahoma, if the women’s labor force participation rate increased to equal that of the men’s, there would be an additional 99,000 workers and an increase of $3.7 billion in wages earned statewide.
County is $58,239 and caregivers with young children are likely to be newer in their careers and have less earning potential.
Supply and Demand
In addition to high costs, the lack of available slots for children needing child care negatively impacts families’ ability to access child care programs. In Oklahoma County, there are more than two children for every slot available in a licensed child care program. This trend is exacerbated by the fact that over the last five years, the local market has experienced a 3% reduction in the total number of child care slots available in Oklahoma County.
Accessing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)
Having access to high-quality ECCE programs encourages parental/guardian employment, which creates more economic security and better opportunities for families. However, accessing ECCE programs has become increasingly difficult across the country and in Oklahoma. This has created a child care crisis in which 55% of Oklahomans, including 68% of rural Oklahomans, live in a child care desert, meaning there are either no providers within their zip code or too few available slots. Those who have child care available near them might not be able to afford it as the cost of care continues to increase. Additionally, those needing care outside of a typical workweek schedule or those needing care that can accommodate children with disabilities might have even more difficulties accessing ECCE programs. Problems related to the child care crisis are not just limited to families searching for care. Child care professionals face low pay and few benefits, and as a result, child care providers have high turnover rates and a difficult time recruiting new employees.
Child Care Costs
Simply put, child care is very expensive, and the cost greatly impacts families’ ability to access ECCE programs. Currently, the average cost for infant care for one year at a child care center in Oklahoma County is $11,080. This is a steep price considering the median household income in Oklahoma
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