Single and poor mothers are traumatized when forced to make use of makeshift child care arrangements which are often substandard. Women in professional training, as well as those in the early years of their careers, are also affected by the lack of dependable, good quality and affordable child care facilities. Worksite facilities would be of value for all working parents and their children. On-site day care would also benefit employers in terms of recruitment and retention of staff. These facilities must meet responsible standards for health, safety, and life stage needs.
Dependent care serves as a needed and responsible supplement to family care.
Affordable dependent care provides additional strength to families and allows more families to contribute to the economy. It is not realistic to assume that mothers can be forced off the workforce and into the home and nursery when families rely on two incomes to survive. A well thought-out program of care and education must be developed. Dependent care should also provide an opportunity to educate parents in the need for meaningful interaction with their children in order to better the physical and mental health of the child and family. On the basis of these judgements, the American Medical Women's Association advocates for the passage of legislation and funding that will allow for affordable day care programs for children and the elderly.