Here’s what to do if the childcare cliff impacts your family, according to experts

Parents, childcare providers, and government officials have been preparing for the looming childcare cliff—the moment at the end of September when federal pandemic funding keeping many centers afloat will end. While nobody needs any more panic after the last few years of upheaval, it’s key to be aware of the potential impact and to make a plan.

Given that, here are the numbers—232,000 childcare workers could be without a job. Over 3 million children might find themselves without necessary care. If left unsolved, economists project this could push mothers out of the workforce, resulting in $9 billion in lost earnings each year, and $10.6 billion in reduced economic activity. Aside from trying to get as much information from your own daycare about their plans and projections through this rocky time, it can feel like parents are helpless in the face of such a widespread and monumental childcare crisis. 

But, according to Gigi Schweikert, a parent of four, former teacher, and CEO of Lightbridge Academy, a daycare system with over 150 locations nationwide, you do have some power in uncertainty. We won’t tell you not to freak out, because of course, it’s a major change. It’s normal, and for moms trying to do it all, losing a consistent and comfortable daycare provider can feel devastating. But, once you’ve had a second to take a breath, it’s time to take action. Here’s what to try.

Start looking at new centers now

As most parents know, daycare waiting lists can be quite long, some with up to a year or more wait times. So, if you talk to your current daycare and suspect the cliff might affect them financially, don’t hesitate to reach out to other nearby options your child might like, and get on their lists. By starting early and choosing more than one, you have a better chance of not experiencing a lapse in care that impacts work. You can also look for temporary nannies on your local social media pages to connect with people who can help during that wait time, should there be one. Having a go-to list might ease the stress if you get The Call from your current provider.

Speak openly with your kids about a possible transition

Kids can sense our stress anyway, so we might as well tell them the truth. “Honesty and simplicity are key. Choose a calm moment to explain the change and emphasize the positive aspects of the new center,” Schweikert says. “Let them know what to expect and plan to visit the center together so they can meet the teacher and get familiar with the new surroundings.”

Many child care centers offer “playdates” which are a great way to help your little one adjust and perhaps even make a new friend, she adds.

Watch your own words and vibes around your kids

Kids are generally smart little creatures. If they sense you are nervous about the new center, they pick up on it. “Children are very intuitive and in tune with how their parents are feeling. Be mindful of what emotions you may be projecting and try not to look worried. Make your drop-off ‘short and sweet’ and include plenty of reassurance that you will be back to pick them up,” Schweikert says. 

Jump into the new center’s community

Get involved at your new place, along with your child. Get to know other parents, arrange playdates, or meet up with other families at a playground, Schweikert recommends. “Consider signing your child up for an extracurricular activity or sport they may enjoy. Shared interests can help them establish common bonds,” she says. You can also foster an easy integration process by reinforcing lessons you’ve likely taught at home again — give them a refresher. 

“Foster essential social skills like sharing, taking turns, and being a good listener. Role-play social scenarios and discuss the importance of kindness and empathy. By being a positive role model for your child, you can demonstrate friendly behavior in your own interactions,” she says. “Finally, give your child plenty of praise and reinforcement when they try to connect with others. Friendships don’t always form on the first attempt, and it will boost their confidence to keep trying to build new friendships.”

Be consistent with the rest of their days

A big change can be mitigated through consistency in the rest of their lives, Schweikert has noticed. “Start with a familiar morning and bedtime routine, and add comforting activities like reading a favorite book or singing a familiar song. Share your child’s routines, preferences, and needs with their new teacher,” she says.  With a few strategic steps and lots of extra hugs, both you and your child will be well-adjusted soon, and the cliff and subsequent changes will be in the rearview mirror.