Childcare Is Workforce Infrastructure
Read the full article published in the Herald-Zeitung by reporter, Erika Wilson here.
Photo by Erika Wilson.
In New Braunfels, childcare is no longer just a family concern—it’s a workforce issue.
As employers struggle with hiring and retention, many families are facing the same challenge: finding and affording reliable childcare. Costs can reach $50,000 to $55,000 per child in the early years, when parents are earning the least in their careers.
Mark Larson, Executive Director of Early Matters San Antonio, says this creates a critical pressure point for working families.
“They haven’t had the three or four promotions that they’ll have by the time they have to pay for college, and so this is really a tough spot for families,” Larson said.
For many, the math simply doesn’t work—leading parents to reduce hours or leave the workforce entirely.
But Larson emphasizes that childcare is more than a short-term challenge—it’s a long-term investment.
“Functionally you pay for childcare potentially for five years when they’re 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, and so you add that up and it’s $50,000 to $55,000 per child just to have the opportunity to stay in the workforce.”
He also points to the critical role early learning plays in shaping future workers.
“Approximately 90% of a child’s brain development happens before the first day of kindergarten,” Larson said, highlighting the importance of early experiences in developing skills like curiosity and communication.
The takeaway is clear: childcare supports today’s workforce—and builds tomorrow’s.
Read the full article published in the Herald-Zeitung by reporter, Erika Wilson here.