MONROE — The Green County Child Care Network, in partnership with WECAN, will host the 5th annual Day Without Child Care event on Monday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Monroe Northeast Park (2700 5th St, Monroe). In the event of inclement weather, an alternate indoor location will be announced.
This annual gathering is part of a nationwide Day of Action designed to raise awareness about the vital role early care and education plays in supporting children, families, and local economies. The event will bring together educators, families, child care providers, business owners, elected officials, and community members to highlight both the importance of child care and the urgent challenges facing the field.
Featured speakers will present from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., they include Sara Rodriguez, candidate for Governor, Corrine Hendrickson, former family child care provider, Shawn Phetteplace, Main Street Alliance, Olivia Otte, GCDC Executive Director, Sam Rikkers, Deputy Undersecretary of WEDC, Jillynn Niemeier, President of GCCCN; followed by an open opportunity for additional attendees to share remarks. Organizers note that more than 100 people have attended each of the past several years and anticipate even greater participation this year. Community members are encouraged to attend, whether to speak, listen, or learn more about the issues impacting child care.
Early childhood education is widely recognized as one of the most critical stages in human development. Research shows that approximately 90% of brain development occurs within the first five years of life, making access to high-quality care essential. Children who experience quality early education are more likely to graduate from high school, maintain better physical and mental health, and earn higher wages as adults. They are also less likely to require public assistance or become involved in the criminal justice system.
Despite its importance, the child care sector continues to face significant challenges. In Wisconsin, the average hourly wage for group center teachers is approximately $13.66, an increase from $10.66 due to temporary federal relief funding through the American Rescue Plan Act. However, nearly 80% of these educators still do not receive benefits. Family child care providers earn even less, averaging $7.42 per hour.
Low wages are largely driven by the financial realities of the industry. Child care providers often cannot charge the true cost of care while remaining affordable for families. Parents already spend between 13% and 24% of their income per child, far exceeding the 7% affordability benchmark identified by economists. Rising operational costs — including food, insurance, facilities, utilities, and maintenance — leave little room for wage increases. Even a modest $1 hourly wage increase for staff can require tuition increases of $10 to $15 per week per child.
Organizers emphasize that a strong and sustainable child care system is essential not only for children and families, but also for employers and the broader economy. Without reliable child care, many working parents face barriers to employment, creating ripple effects across the workforce.
Community members and local leaders are encouraged to attend and participate in this important conversation about the future of child care.
For more information, (additional speakers will be added in the discussion) visit: https://www.facebook.com/share/18LJigPmnN/
