Policy Brief
An Overview of Formal Childcare Programs: What Works to Improve Maternal and Child-related Outcomes?
Key Insights
1. Provision of formal childcare may increase female labor supply, but the extent depends on pre-existing informal childcare arrangements
2. The employment-related effects of formal childcare can vary based on household structure
3. Restrictive gender norms may limit the effectiveness of formal care in enabling mothers to transition to paid work and in enhancing their socioeconomic empowerment
4. The quality of care is a key determinant of child development
5. Identifying clear outcomes of interest is key for policy evaluation