Paying for Child Care

Your child is priceless. But paying for good child care can be a struggle. In fact, child care is probably the second largest expense in your budget after rent or mortgage. The Missoulian reported in November 2007 that paying for a year’s worth of child care in our community will actually cost more than a year of tuition at the University of Montana.

Child care is expensive, but you may be able to reduce your child care costs or get some assistance paying your child care bills. It is important to understand that the money you pay to your child care provider is going to their salaries so that they can continue to provide care, receive education that will help them best meet your child’s care and early learning needs. Your child care fees are also helping to purchase food, toys, equipment, and supplies and to pay their employees.

The most important thing is that your family and child are healthy and happy. By planning ahead, getting the facts, and using all of the resources available to help you, you are off to a good start in making the best choice for your family.