Child care beneficial to economy
Considering the need for universal quality child care from the perspective of the costs we pay when our children do not have this experience reveals many hidden but critical dividends.
Of course, when mothers can access quality child care for their children, they can work full time and add to the economy. According to research from Columbia University and the National Women’s Law Center, the direct result is an increase of 17% in the number of women who work full time. Their taxes are then available to the country and their earnings are quickly spent on necessities for their families. Children are lifted out of poverty, and their families remain intact.
Affordable and accessible child care frees mothers’ minds to focus on work, relationships, parenting and participation in society and allows them to utilize learning opportunities for personal and professional growth. I was able to complete a BSW as a single mother when I had child care for my son and worked full time. My education and skills allowed me to improve the lives of children and families, protect children from harm, and provide skilled therapy for child crime victims. Without child care, my goal would never have been realized.
Another way child care saves us money is by eradicating the costs to society when children are not taught early to work and play amicably with others, make group decisions, recognize their feelings and express them in a socially approved manner. We pay dearly in school counselors, special education, juvenile detention and eventual prison when people have not been taught the essential skills to succeed in society.
Laura Avant, Denver
Time to restore and strengthen our diplomatic resources
As a retired member of the U.S. Foreign Service, I was proud to represent America in five foreign countries over my 29 years of service, assisting American citizens in distress, negotiating agreements with foreign governments and helping American companies do business abroad, among other duties.
It is an understatement to say that this past year has been difficult for everyone. This includes members of our Foreign Service who have remained on the front lines throughout the pandemic, working to bring more than 100,000 Americans home safely and continuing to protect and serve America’s interests abroad.
Diplomacy is our first line of defense, neutralizing potential threats to our interests before they can become real threats to Americans. However, for diplomacy to once again take the premier place in our foreign policy, we must strengthen our Foreign Service. Our diplomats are overstretched, and our embassies and consulates are understaffed. In recent years China has eclipsed us in the number of its diplomatic outposts and overseas diplomatic personnel.
This past year has demonstrated the need for increased U.S. engagement in the world and the importance of U.S. leadership in solving global problems. America’s diplomats are on the ground in countries all over the world representing American interests. Let’s make sure they have the necessary personnel and resources to meet the needs of the American people.
John Ries, Denver
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Originally Appeared On: https://www.denverpost.com/2021/05/10/letters-child-care-beneficial-to-economy-5-10-21/