The problem of child-care scarcity is largely due to a lack of care for infants and young toddlers rather than for children ages 3 to 5, finds a new study by the liberal think tank Center for American Progress.
The study examined available licensed child care in nine states and the District of Columbia and found that there are more than five infants and toddlers for every licensed child-care slot, which is more than three times the ratio for children ages 3 to 5. Shortages were especially acute in rural areas and in low-income communities.
