Child Care Assistance for Native Americans

Native Americans, like other families around the country, may have a difficult time paying for child care expenses. It’s estimated by the Economic Policy Institute that the average cost of infant child care is around $470 per month, while the average cost of child care for a 4-year old is around $406 per month. Those figures are from Alabama, too, where the cost of living is lower than in many states around the country. Other states, such as California, Florida, and New York, for example, have even higher average child care costs. The good news is that no matter what state you live in, there is child care assistance for Native Americans.

Child care assistance programs make it easier for Native Americans to afford paying for child care. Once children are in school, families typically don’t have as much of a child care cost. During elementary school they may have after school child care costs, but once kids are in middle school they are typically able to start caring for themselves for a couple of hours after they get out of school. However, the first four years of a child’s life can be an economically challenging one for those Native American families that need both parents to work and need to pay for child care.

Here are some child care assistance programs for Native Americans:

• Head Start. The Head Start program is a federally-funded child care option. The program offers free learning opportunities for children up to ages five. To qualify for the program, you have to meet the low income requirements. There is a limited amount of funding for the program, so those who are interested need to contact the Head Start agency in their area to inquire about registering their child. Children who are approved for the Head Start program will typically attend a daycare-type setting, where there will also be an emphasis on learning.
• Tax Deduction. Anyone who pays for child care throughout the year will qualify for a tax credit when they go to file their taxes with the IRS. This tax credit, or tax deduction, will provide families with assistance when it comes to paying for their child care. Visit the IRS website for more information on this tax credit, and be sure to inquire about it when having your taxes prepared.
• State Programs. Most states offer child care assistance for Native Americans, as well as for others who have a low income. The programs typically pay for all or part of your child care expenses, so that parents can continue working during those first years. Contact your state welfare or social services office to inquire about and apply for child care assistance. You will need to meet the low income requirements and be a citizen or legal alien in order to be eligible. Additionally, Native Americans can contact their local Tribal Office to inquire about child care assistance programs that they have information on. You may be able to apply for some assistance programs right at the Tribal Office.
• Pre-kindergarten Programs. There are many free child care programs around the state that are considered “pre-kindergarten.” These programs offer free preschool programs the year before they begin kindergarten. Most of these programs are open to everyone, regardless of their income, and serve the purpose of helping children to get a good start in education. Visit the Child Care Aware site to find a state-run pre-kindergarten program in your area.
• The YMCA has over 2,700 locations around the nation. They offer after school care programs and summer child care programs. Many people who cannot afford to pay for the child care can apply for a grant so that their child can attend for free. Visit your local YMCA to inquire about their after school program.
• Boys and Girls Club. With over 1,100 locations around the nation, many elementary school age children receive free after school care from the Boys and Girls Club. Contact the location in your area to inquire about free after school programs.

Native Americans who need assistance with paying for child care should be able to qualify for one more of the programs listed above. Additionally, they should inquire with local church preschool programs to see if any of them offer tuition discounts or scholarships for low income families. There are many child care assistance programs for Native Americans to explore, with them sure to find at least one that will work for their family.