Seven in 10 parents believe that raising children today necessitates a broader network of support than previous generations relied upon, according to research from Talker Research commissioned by The Goddard School. The nationwide poll surveyed 2,000 parents with children aged 0 to 6.

Results indicate that 71% of these parents feel a greater need to place trust and confidence in others to support their child’s well-being than their own parents did. This sentiment highlights a shift in the perceived demands and complexities of modern parenting.

Many households with young children operate with both parents in the workforce. The survey found 28% of parents are in dual-income households, while 22% are single parents. Nine in ten dual-income households reported working out of necessity, underscoring the crucial role of reliable childcare in enabling parental workforce participation.

Most parents utilize some form of childcare, with 82% reporting this. Childcare arrangements include immediate family members (43%), friends (25%), early childhood education providers (24%), traditional daycares (19%), and nannies or babysitters (14%).

Without access to childcare providers, one-quarter of parents said one parent would need to reduce their work hours (27%), and a similar percentage (26%) stated one parent would have to leave the workforce entirely. An additional 35% indicated both parents would need to adjust their schedules.

Parents are thorough in selecting childcare providers. Nearly a full workweek, averaging 39 hours, is spent researching options for early childhood education or traditional daycare. Common research methods include reviewing provider websites (27%), engaging in phone conversations (26%), and examining social media channels (26%).

"While many parents say that help with social and emotional development (36%) is the most important quality in their child’s care provider, factors such as having a trusted reputation (35%) and a safe and secure campus (33%) ranked almost equally as high, demonstrating a need for trusted providers who prioritize their child’s holistic development and well-being," said Dr. Lauren Loquasto, Chief Academic Officer at The Goddard School. Parents also seek caretakers who focus on socializing (43%), creativity (37%), building confidence (37%), and supporting problem-solving skills (34%). The majority of parents, 86%, also consider "school readiness" a key focus when selecting a care provider.

Despite the emphasis on quality care, cost remains the primary obstacle for parents, cited by 41% of respondents. Other significant barriers include finding reliable options (33%), navigating waitlists and availability (28%), and aligning with provider operating hours (25%).

"Almost every parent polled—90%—said it’s important for them to have options when choosing care for their child, while two-thirds wish they had more options when they chose their provider," Loquasto added. "Every family has unique desires, needs and challenges when it comes to their child’s care and education—having options is critically important."

The survey was conducted online by Talker Research between July 17 and July 27, 2026.