This discussion paper begins by explaining what is commonly understood as child care and how child care expenses currently enter the market basket measure (MBM) methodology. It then describes an alternative approach to account for child care expenses by incorporating them as a separate component within the MBM based on the reference family. A discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach is also provided. The public and stakeholders are invited to provide feedback and comments on the discussion points presented.
2024 Report Card on Child and Family Poverty in Canada