Childcare

Legislative leaders agree that the ongoing child care crisis in South Dakota represents a significant workforce problem. Advocates are worried they lack a sense of urgency.

The Department of Social Services is changing payment policies in hopes that more daycare providers will accept children who receive government assistance.

Early Learner South Dakota and South Dakota Afterschool Network seek input on the childcare crisis. This comes after the announcement of the closure of several Apple Tree Childcare Centers in Sioux Falls.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, providers will receive full authorized payments – even if there are temporary changes in child attendance.

The Governor’s Office of Economic Development, or GOED, announced Tuesday the communities slated to receive child care investments.

Keiz Larson, CEO of the Rapid City YMCA, joins In the Moment to continue the conversation on the child care crisis, including the growing number of facility closures.

Parents who would otherwise participate in the workforce may find themselves leaving for years at a time because they either can't find or afford care for their children.

The complex issue of child care burdens families across the state. As the topic directly affects the next generation of South Dakotans, now is the time for movement from leaders.

Entering its 29th season, and third with Jackie Hendry as host, SD Focus is pivoting to a new presentation style. Always known as a public affairs program that speaks about issues that matter to South Dakota, Focus is taking that approach one step further this season by examining the topic of children’s issues from a variety of angles throughout the season.

Most two-parent families can't afford child care, but they also can't afford to be single-income households, according to members of Sioux Falls Childcare Collaborative.