Challenges in Providing Non-Standard Hour Childcare in the Twin Cities

Abstract

There is a well-documented, growing need for non-standard hour childcare in the seven county Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minnesota. However, to date there is limited information about both the challenges and barriers childcare providers face in offering non-standard hour childcare services. Using the database of licensed childcare providers and centers maintained by Child Care Aware of Minnesota for the state Department of Human Services, this project surveyed 54 childcare providers in the Twin Cities about their specific challenges and barriers in providing extended hours or overnight care. Major challenges in providing non-standard hour child care shared by respondents include: 1) individual caregiver fatigue, 2) staffing difficulties, 3) structural and regulatory barriers, and 4) familial strain and adjustment. Prominent barriers to providing non-standard hour child care include: (1) personal family needs, (2) corporately owned business plans, (3) no perceived market need, (4) perceived licensure difficulties, and (4) difficulty in recruiting and retaining staff.