Experts say grandparents can’t solve rising daycare costs

During a recent conservative event, vice presidential candidate JD Vance suggested that families could alleviate the burden of rising daycare costs by relying on grandparents and other relatives for childcare. This proposal comes amid a national crisis where over half of American families spend more than 20% of their income on childcare, with costs for two children exceeding average rent in all states. Experts criticized Vance's suggestion, arguing that it reflects a misunderstanding of the current family dynamics and the financial pressures many face. They highlighted that many grandparents are still working and may not be available to provide care, while others are themselves in need of care due to aging. The narrative that caregiving should be a familial obligation, particularly for women, is seen as problematic and classist. Experts advocate for systemic changes, such as paid family leave and increased investment in childcare, to address the root causes of the crisis. The lack of support for families, especially mothers, who often bear the brunt of childcare responsibilities, underscores the need for a reevaluation of how society values caregiving roles. The ongoing challenges faced by families today are compounded by the isolation many experience, making it clear that relying on grandparents is not a viable solution to the childcare crisis.