Subjecting the ‘black box’ of childcare markets to closer scrutiny, this book brings to light complex political, social and economic work of making childcare markets.

As many governments now rely on the market to meet childcare demand, this book subjects the ‘black box’ of childcare markets to closer scrutiny.

Drawing from an in-depth study of New Zealand, Gallagher examines key issues around marketized childcare, including the high costs for parents, the varying quality for children and poor remuneration for those who work in the sector.