With data from the Survey of Income Program Participation, a three-equation, reduced-form econometric model is used to generate estimates revealing that the cost of market child care decreases the labor force participation of married women. High wages increase likelihood of working and use of paid child care. (SK)

Examination of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth found that a woman's wages relate positively to early return to work after childbirth; higher family income delays return; income did not affect child care choice; greater child care tax credits increased early return; and tax credits did not affect child care choice, but predicted…

Analysis of data from a national sample of over 4,000 child care workers indicates that (1) their wages are unaffected by government subsidies and regulations; and (2) wages have remained constant relative to other workers' wages despite substantial increases in child care subsidies. (SK)

Data from 971 mothers suggested that (1) price is critical in child care choice; (2) parents do not consistently select high quality care; and (3) mothers with higher wages and families with higher incomes prefer center care. Vouchers, reduced fees, or tax credits consistently increase use of day care centers. (SK)