Childcare Provision in Neoliberal Times: The Marketization of Care

Governments rely on the market to meet childcare demand, but who are the actors shaping this market? Gallagher examines the problematic growth of private, for-profit childcare, highlighting the complex political, social, and economic dynamics behind childcare provisioning.

Format: Hardback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Governments often rely on the market to meet the demand for childcare, but who are the actors shaping this market? What roles do they play in marketing care? And what implications does this have for the provision of childcare?

In his groundbreaking book, Gallagher delves into the problematic growth of private, for-profit childcare in New Zealand. Through an innovative theoretical framework and an extensive study of the childcare market, he sheds light on the complex political, social, and economic dynamics that underpin childcare provisioning.

Gallagher begins by examining the historical and political context of childcare provision in New Zealand. He explores how the market has evolved over time, with the rise of private, for-profit childcare providers playing a significant role in meeting the demand for childcare. However, he also highlights the concerns associated with this growth, such as the potential exploitation of workers, the commodification of care, and the impact on children's well-being.

To understand the actors shaping the childcare market, Gallagher conducts an in-depth analysis of the various stakeholders involved. He includes private childcare providers, government agencies, advocacy groups, and researchers, each of whom plays a unique role in shaping the market. He explores their motivations, strategies, and interactions, shedding light on the power dynamics at play.

One of the key findings of the book is the role of government agencies in promoting and regulating the childcare market. Gallagher argues that government policies and regulations can have a significant impact on the quality and accessibility of childcare. He highlights the need for policies that prioritize the well-being of children, support workers' rights, and ensure that childcare is affordable and accessible to all families.

Gallagher also examines the social and economic implications of private, for-profit childcare. He argues that the growth of this sector has led to a concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few, while many families struggle to access affordable childcare. He suggests that there are potential solutions to this problem, such as increasing government funding for childcare, promoting worker ownership and collective bargaining, and implementing policies that support the development of community-based childcare providers.

In conclusion, Gallagher's book is a valuable contribution to the study of childcare markets. By examining the complex political, social, and economic dynamics behind childcare provisioning, he provides a critical analysis of the growth of private, for-profit childcare and offers potential solutions to address the concerns associated with this trend. This book is essential reading for policymakers, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities of childcare provision in the 21st century.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529206494