Understanding the Challenges Facing Colorado’s Child Care Providers

Colorado’s child care sector is at a breaking point. In the past year, 54 centers have shut their doors, eliminating more than than 4,300 spots for children. Rising costs and burdensome regulations are forcing providers out. Industry leaders argue that while the intent behind universal preschool is positive, its implementation has left many private providers unable to stay afloat. As a result, more parents are being pushed out of the workforce due to a lack of care options.

Leaders like EPIC President and CEO Nicole Riehl are urging state agencies and providers to come together to find balanced, long-term solutions that support both families’ needs and the sustainability of the childcare workforce. Riehl was recently interviewed as an expert for an article published by the Sum & Substance, an online news site from the Colorado Chamber of Commerce. Read the full article to learn more about what’s needed to keep child care businesses open.