Childcare

We understand good childcare can be hard to come by for working parents. Here are some resources and strategies to assist in navigating the challenges of irregular work hours and limited industry-wide benefits:

Child Care Financial Assistance Programs –

Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF):
A federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income families for childcare expenses. Eligibility requirements vary by state.
Child Care.gov

Flexible Childcare Options –

Family Child Care Centers:
These home-based providers often offer more flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, which can accommodate non-traditional work schedules.
Care.com

Drop-In Childcare Services:
Facilities that allow parents to utilize childcare services on an as-needed basis, providing flexibility for unpredictable work hours.

Employer-Supported Childcare –

On-Site Childcare Facilities:
Some employers offer on-site childcare services, providing convenience and potentially more flexible hours for employees. Advocating for such programs within your workplace can be beneficial.
AP News

Childcare Subsidies:
Encourage employers to provide childcare subsidies or partner with local childcare providers to offer discounted rates for employees.

Community Resources –

Local Childcare Resource and Referral Agencies:
Organizations like YMCA and Boys & Girls Club assist families in finding childcare options that are more flexible and affordable for working parents.

Shared Childcare Arrangements:
Coordinating with other salon professionals to share childcare responsibilities or costs can create a support network and provide more flexible solutions.

Legislative Advocacy –

Support for Policies Promoting Flexible Childcare:
Engaging in advocacy for policies that expand access to affordable childcare, such as tax incentives for businesses that assist employees with childcare expenses, can lead to systemic improvements.
AP News

We hope that by exploring these resources, salon professionals can better manage the challenges of securing affordable and reliable childcare amidst irregular working hours.