Business Wire·Oct 29, 2026, 8:33 AM ET

KinderCare Study: 30-Point Gap Between Parents' Child Care Needs and Employer Support

The 2026 KinderCare Confidence Index reveals a 30-percentage-point gap where 68% of parents want on-demand or emergency child care but only 38% report their employers offer it.
81% of parents constantly worry about child care disruptions, with 50% missing work, 35% reducing hours, and two-thirds reporting negative impacts on work performance.
Significant benefits gaps exist as 53% of parents desire varied child care options versus 20% available from employers, while 58% want subsidized care compared to just 25% provided.
79% of working parents state they would be more loyal to a company if employers offered stronger support for their parenting needs.
KinderCare partners with over 700 organizations to address these needs through backup care, tuition benefits, on-site or near-site care, & before- and after-school programs.
Research indicates that 68% of parents want access to flexible care to navigate holiday school closures & modified schedules that conflict with regular workplace demands.
The study highlights that reliable child care solutions can help employers strengthen productivity, engagement, & retention during the holiday season & year-round.