The Hidden Barrier to Missouri’s Workforce

Missouri’s economy depends on its working families, yet a silent crisis is holding back both parents and businesses: the persistent shortage of affordable, quality child care. Across the state, especially in rural areas, “child care deserts” are making it nearly impossible for many parents to stay in the workforce, threatening the stability of families and the vitality of local economies.

What Are Child Care Deserts?

A child care desert is an area where there are more than three times as many children under age six with working parents as there are licensed child care slots. In Missouri, 78 out of 115 counties are classified as child care deserts, affecting 32% of the state’s population. The problem is even more severe for infants and toddlers: only 16% of licensed slots are available for this age group, and 112 counties are considered deserts for infant and toddler care.

The Economic Toll

The lack of child care options is not just a family issue—it’s a workforce and economic issue. Missouri’s economy loses an estimated $1.35 billion every year due to child care challenges, including lost productivity, absenteeism, and parents leaving the workforce altogether. For businesses, this means unfilled job openings, higher turnover, and reduced productivity. In fact, 28% of Missouri parents reported that they or someone in their household had to leave a job, decline a job, or significantly change jobs in the past year because of child care issues.

Impact on Families and Communities

For families, the consequences are personal and immediate. High child care costs often exceed other household expenses, forcing parents to choose between work and basic necessities like housing and food1. In rural areas, the shortage is so acute that families face long waitlists or must travel unreasonable distances to find care. This not only strains families but also discourages young families from settling in these communities, threatening the long-term sustainability of small towns across Missouri.

Solutions on the Horizon

Missouri has made progress by streamlining early childhood programs and investing in workforce training for child care providers. New policy proposals, such as HB 269, are trying to expand access through tax credits for parents, employers, and providers. However, experts agree that more targeted investment is needed—especially in rural and underserved areas—to close the gap and ensure every family has access to affordable, high-quality child care.

Why It Matters for Everyone

Accessible child care is foundational to a thriving workforce and a strong economy. When parents can rely on safe, affordable care, they are able to work, support their families, and contribute to Missouri’s economic growth. For businesses, supporting child care is not just a benefit for employees—it’s a strategic investment in productivity and community stability.

As Missouri looks to the future, addressing child care deserts must be a top priority. By working together—families, businesses, policymakers, and communities—we can ensure that child care keeps Missouri working.

Click if interested in learning more about the Data Services at Child Care Aware https://mochildcareaware.org/data-and-reports/.