As of October 2025, more than 7,000 children in Minnesota are waiting for an Early Learning Scholarship. This critical funding helps eligible families pay for quality early care and education, yet thousands of families are desperately waiting for relief.
Why the Waitlist Is Growing
Due to decisions made during the 2025 legislative session, the Early Learning Scholarship program will be cut by $200 million over the next two years. This means the waitlist will only continue to grow, and families may be discouraged from applying because fewer scholarships will be awarded.
The impact of waiting for a scholarship is devastating for families—from sacrificing career opportunities to choosing convenience over quality for their children’s care.
The Human Impact Behind the Numbers
Recently, Think Small collected stories from more than 100 families on the waitlist. Families from Moorhead to Rochester shared their experiences, highlighting the statewide impact of the child care affordability crisis. Waiting for scholarship relief affects families’ financial well-being, mental health, careers, schooling, and children’s development.
These voices reveal the heartbreaking reality of Minnesota’s early care and education landscape and the urgent need for additional investments.
What Families Are Saying
Single parents struggling to make ends meet
“By the end of each month, I’m often left with very little or nothing. I’m living paycheck to paycheck, and while I continue working hard, there’s no realistic way for me to afford regular childcare right now. This has limited my ability to work more hours, pursue opportunities, or get ahead financially. It’s a constant juggling act that leaves me exhausted, stressed, and worried for the future.” — Lucia, Minnetonka
Parents sacrificing career opportunities
“I have a strong desire to work and earn money but I can’t achieve this without a daycare. The benefits of daycare to me can’t be overemphasized because it will help me navigate the system and be independent.” — Madagbeh, Brooklyn Park
What families wish legislators understood
“I wish lawmakers and the public knew that families like mine are not lazy, we are overwhelmed. We are doing everything in our power to stay afloat, to care for our children, and to rise. This scholarship could be the turning point that gives me the ability to work again and provide a better life for my babies. We need real support, not just waiting lists. We need action.” — Bintu, Plymouth
Impact on children’s development
“My 4-year-old is extremely intelligent and deserves to be able to go to pre-K like any other child her age, but we have been forced to do another year at a daycare center which is holding her back academically when it comes to kindergarten readiness.” — Hope, St. Louis Park
What’s Next?
Think Small urges our state representatives to protect and maintain Scholarship funding to avoid further cuts and harm to families. Throughout the 2026 legislative session, we will share these stories with policymakers and the public to amplify the voices of Minnesota families and advocate for urgent action.
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Written by Maggie Zepp, Think Small Policy Engagement Coordinator
