As the graph below reveals, most preschoolers regardless of income do not spend their days in centers or homes where paid staff take care of them. Day care subsidies, teacher training, preschool playground grants, and the like will benefit these families not at all. For those quarter of families who do use paid day-care in some form, Smart Start is less efficient aid than simply expanding the eligibility or amount of day care vouchers already distributed by counties. In either case, Smart Start is a square peg in a playpen of round holes. It just doesn't fit.
Families are by far the most important providers of preschool services.
All of these investments in child development deserve the same subsidy, if any, given to those who choose services provided for pay outside the home. Furthermore, parents are in the best position to judge the quality of the day care or services they do purchase for their children, and should be empowered to do so without state interference. Contrary to popular belief, most families in public opinion surveys say they are satisfied with their day care arrangements. That's what counts. Smart Start and other subsidy programs and tax credits for child-care and preschool expenses should be eliminated in favor of a refundable Smart Start tax credit for preschool children.