Choosing a high-quality child care and early education program is one of the most important investments you can make in your child’s future. During their earliest years, children develop the social, emotional, cognitive, and language skills that provide the foundation for lifelong learning.
Like many important investments, quality early education requires thoughtful financial planning. Fortunately, many families can take advantage of tax benefits, employer-sponsored programs, state assistance, scholarships, and other resources that help reduce the overall cost of care.
The information below is intended to help you better understand your options and identify programs that may be available to your family.
Understanding the Value of Quality Early Education
The cost of child care reflects much more than supervision. High-quality early education programs invest in experienced teachers, safe and engaging classrooms, educational materials, nutritious meals and snacks, ongoing staff training, licensing requirements, and comprehensive health and safety standards.
At Tender Years, we believe these investments create an environment where children can learn, grow, build confidence, and prepare for success in Kindergarten and beyond.
Ways to Help Reduce Your Child Care Costs
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
Many working families may qualify for the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, which can help offset a portion of eligible child care expenses.
Qualifying expenses may include daycare, preschool, before- and after-school care, and certain summer day camps when the care allows parents or guardians to work or actively seek employment. Eligibility, expense limits, and credit amounts vary based on your family’s circumstances, so we encourage you to consult a tax professional or visit the IRS website for current guidance.
Employer Child Care Benefits
Some employers provide child care assistance as part of their employee benefits package. Depending on your employer, benefits may include:
- Child care reimbursement
- Flexible spending accounts
- Backup child care benefits
- Employer-sponsored tuition assistance
- Child care discounts through partner organizations
Ask your Human Resources department whether any child care benefits are available.
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Many employers offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), allowing eligible child care expenses to be paid with pre-tax dollars. Because contributions are made before taxes are calculated, participating can reduce your taxable income and lower your family’s overall child care costs.
When enrolling, estimate your annual child care expenses carefully, as unused funds may be forfeited at the end of the plan year. You’ll also want to keep receipts and other documentation for reimbursement purposes.
Pennsylvania Child Care Works
Pennsylvania’s Early Learning Resource Centers offer information resources in your local area. They also administer the Child Care Works subsidized child care program. This program assists parents by paying a portion of their child care costs. Eligibility requirements include residency status, income, work status, and other considerations.
To contact your area’s Early Learning Resource Center, call the Child Care Works Helpline at 1-877-4-PA-KIDS or…
Child Care Subsidies for Students
If you or your spouse is a student, your school/university may offer financial assistance to help you pay for child care. These programs normally have eligibility requirements pertaining to income, course enrollment, GPA, and other factors. Speak with the registrar’s office at your school to find out what if offered.
Additionally, students in Pennsylvania may qualify for a child care subsidy through the Child Care Works program referenced above.
Military Child Care Assistance
Tender Years, Inc. participates with Child Care Aware® of America. In addition to providing a variety of informational resources, Child Care Aware® of America is partnered with the United States Military and Department of Defense to serve and support their families through the Fee Assistance and Respite Child Care Programs.
Budgeting for Child Care
For many families, child care is one of the largest household expenses during the early years.
Including tuition in your monthly budget before your child begins care can make planning easier and help you prepare for future transitions, including Preschool and Pre-K.
Family Referral Programs
If you have a child enrolled at Tender Years, you can earn a FREE week of tuition when you refer a new family who enrolls one or more children with us. Earn an unlimited number of free weeks! Plus, every family you refer will receive FREE Registration – a $100 Value! It’s a win-win!
Tuition Pre-Payment Discount
When the opportunity arises, consider pre-paying for your child’s care. As an example, at Tender Years, prepaying twelve weeks of Summer Camp will save you 10% on tuition. This can total than $300 in savings over the course of the summer!
Scholarships & Community Assistance
Some nonprofit organizations, community foundations, churches, civic groups, and local organizations offer scholarships or financial assistance to help eligible families offset the cost of quality early education.
Families may also wish to contact their local United Way to learn about scholarships and other financial assistance programs that may be available.
We encourage families to explore available community resources and apply early when opportunities become available.
The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) offers Early Education Scholarships of up to $2,500 for eligible children ages 3 to 5 who are enrolled in a qualifying Pre-K program. Scholarship amounts, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.
Review Your Options Each Year
Tax laws, employer benefits, and financial assistance programs can change over time. Taking a few minutes each year to review your available resources may uncover new opportunities to reduce your family’s child care expenses.
We’re Here to Help
Choosing child care is about much more than comparing tuition. It’s about finding a safe, nurturing environment where your child can learn, build confidence, develop meaningful relationships, and prepare for future success.
If you have questions about tuition, payment options, enrollment, or available financial resources, our team is always happy to help you explore your options and find the solution that best fits your family’s needs.
Contact Tender Years today to schedule a tour or learn more about our programs.
