Daycare Assistance Government Grants

Many families struggle to find affordable daycare. According to a 2006 study by Runzheimer International, average full-time costs for one child were $611 per month (See Reference 1). In some cities, the costs may run closer to $1,400 per month, and families with infants or more than one child shell out even more. Grants and scholarships make childcare affordable for families meeting certain income criteria. Lesser known options are also available for families that don't qualify for traditional grant programs.

  1. Federal Childcare and Development Grants

    • Federal Childcare and Development Grants (See Reference 2) are available for families that meet specific income guidelines. The grants are administered by state and county agencies and eligibility requirements may vary from state to state. Most states require that parents be working, searching for employment or in a training program. Grants are funded by federal, state and county monies and parent fees. Grants can be used for care in licensed daycare homes and childcare centers.

    Head Start

    • Head Start provides comprehensive services to children from birth to age five who come from economically disadvantaged families. Children in foster care, homeless children or children from families receiving public assistance automatically qualify. At least 10% of children attending Head Start have family incomes above the poverty guideline. Head Start also provides services for children with special needs. Head Start focuses on teaching children early literacy, math and social skills needed for later school success.

    Tribal Care Programs

    • Tribal care programs are available in all fifty states (See Reference 3). To be eligible, tribes must be federally recognized and have a tribal population of at least 50 children under age 13. If tribes do not meet these requirements, they can qualify by joining with other qualifying tribes.

    Private Scholarships

    • Most preschools and daycares offer scholarships or sliding fee scales. Apply early as scholarships are limited. Additionally, some will waive the registration fee or offer discounts for more than one child. Let the director know that paying tuition is difficult. Some schools will even waive one or two payments.

    Get Creative

    • Andrea Sisbarro of the Boulder Journey School in Boulder, Colorado is a firm believer in bartering. "In exchange for help with tuition, we've received volunteer hours, teaching materials and even the new wood floor when our school was renovated." While schools are businesses, most directors are compassionate to the struggle working families face.

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