New data suggests that children who spend long hours in childcare may face a higher risk of emotional development challenges and learning difficulties.
The study highlights the difficult balance many working parents face, noting that children who spend around 40 hours a week in childcare are more likely to experience social and emotional struggles.
A major government study conducted in Australia tracked 274,000 children from birth until their first year of school. It found that children attending “low-quality” childcare for more than 30 hours a week were more vulnerable in at least one of five developmental areas.
The most significant impact was observed in social competence and emotional maturity, especially when compared to children who did not attend formal childcare. Experts suggest that one contributing factor may be high staff turnover, as young children benefit from stable and secure relationships with caregivers.
However, experts also caution that keeping children at home is not always the best option. In some cases, childcare can provide important support, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds, single-parent families, or homes where English is not the primary language.
The Anthony Albanese government recently expanded childcare support, ensuring eligible families receive three days of subsidised childcare per week.
While this support has been welcomed by families, advocacy groups stress the need to improve the overall quality of childcare services, noting that reducing childcare hours is not a practical option for many working parents.
