Perceptions of low-income working parents on childcare in Dhaka City

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the perceptions of low-income working parents regarding childcare services for children under the age of five in Dhaka City. Despite the rising number of women in the workforce, many low-income families remain excluded from essential, affordable and reliable childcare services, often forcing mothers to leave their jobs or rely on unsafe, informal care arrangements. Through an examination of parental understanding, influencing factors and existing challenges, the study identifies a significant gap between the high demand for childcare and the limited availability of such services in urban slum communities. Findings suggest that while parents increasingly recognize the importance of childcare services, their choices are heavily constrained by service costs, lack of availability, and concerns regarding child safety and caregiver trust. The study emphasizes the urgent need for community-oriented, affordable childcare models for low-income working parents in Dhaka city. These insights contribute to the design of context-specific interventions and inform policy advocacy for early childhood development goals.