In Iowa, a new bill is sparking debate: should teenagers be allowed to care for infants without adult supervision? House Study Bill 8 suggests they could, offering “flex care” for quick breaks—but it leaves parents and experts uneasy. Imagine leaving your newborn with a 16-year-old while you run to the restroom. Some say it’s necessary for adult workers to have a breather, but others worry about safety. As discussions continue, the balance between care convenience and child safety hangs in the air.
Why is it news in North Dakota? In a state where child care is among our most pressing issues, we need to be on the lookout for every willing caregiver, and we perhaps that means we need to adjust our expectation — or age requirements — of those who can provide that care.
