Why Texas Should Adopt New Mexico’s Universal Child Care Model

I recently came across a post in which a Lubbock mother was venting about the cost of babysitting. She was bemoaning that babysitting is typically $20 an hour, but that an "actual full-time job" only paid $11 an hour.

Displaced Anger At Child Care Costs

Don't worry, many people pointed out that her anger wasn't exactly directed at the right place. I would like to point out that benefits from a full-time job should also be considered part of the compensation. However, $11 versus $20 is never going to be sustainable, even with medical or dental insurance (if provided).

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This young mother has the right to be angry (and I do sympathize with her very much), but not at babysitters providing a service at the going rate.  Some commentators on the post pointed out that she could move as nearby as Clovis, New Mexico, and participate in their universal free childcare.

That was the first time I've ever heard about that program, as it was very recently implemented.

New Mexico Universal Healthcare: How Does It Work?

In November 20225, New Mexico became the first state to implement universal free child care for infants and toddlers. I'm sure many states and lawmakers will be watching this intently to see if it works.

There are no income limits, no copays, and families can choose the care that works best for them, including centers, home-based providers, language immersion or faith-based programs, and care during evenings or weekends.

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The benefits of such a program are staggering. Not only will this create plenty of childcare jobs, but it will also allow parents to work or attend school full-time. New Mexico also offers free Head Start and PreK programs. This is being pro-family by putting your money where your mouth is, instead of shrugging your shoulders and expecting struggling parents to pull themselves up by their bootstraps.

Better Outcomes for Children

Research consistently shows that early childhood education improves cognitive development, school readiness, and long-term academic success. Children who attend high-quality programs are more likely to graduate high school, earn higher wages, and experience better health outcomes. Sure, if one parent or guardian can afford to stay home, that's fantastic, but it's just not feasible for many.

By investing in universal child care, Texas would be investing directly in its future workforce and social well-being. And it would certainly make things more "fair" for young mothers and fathers here in Lubbock and statewide. Or, we could simply start losing families to New Mexico; it's only a short drive away.