Article Link: http://www.exchangepress.com/article/child-care-and-the-new-economy/5019039/
Part 2 �" The future of the early childhood profession“In my first career as a lawyer/economist I learned that the principle author of most economic forecasts is a lady we called ‘Rosy Scenario.’” With this caution provided by John Surr, Exchange has embarked on an analysis of what the future holds for the early childhood profession. In our September/October issue we analyzed trends in business and society and identified three pillars of the new economy.
After this article was published we asked readers to share their views on what these changes mean for the world of early childhood. In the following pages we will summarize respondent’s views. Not surprisingly, since most of us are still scratching our heads trying to figure out where this is all headed, there are lots of strong opinions, but not a lot of consensus.
The future demand for early childhood services
Taking a look at demand as we come out of the current downturn, readers see a number of changes ahead:
“The demand will grow, but change. Work hours are shifting; more and more employees are working odd hours and from home. So I think there will be less demand for child care services to cover a regular, 9-to-5 workday. ...