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Do We Value Our Cars More Than Our Kids? The Conundrum Of Care For Children, Palma Joy Strand

palma joy strand

Formal child care workers in the United States earn about $21,110 per year. Parking lot attendants, in contrast, make $21,250. These relative wages are telling: The market values the people who look after our cars more than the people who look after our kids. This article delves below the surface of these numbers to explore the systemic disadvantages of those who care for children—and children themselves. The article first illuminates the precarious economic position of children in our society, with a disproportionate number living in poverty. The article then documents both that substantial care for children is provided on an …