(920) 382-9797 
info@quokkakids.com 
1659 N. Spring St. Suite 102, Beaver Dam, WI
Ways Families Can Reduce Child Care Costs
Child care is an important investment, and many families may qualify for programs that help lower the cost. At Quokka Kids, we want families to understand the options available to them. This guide covers the discounts and assistance accepted by our center, Wisconsin child care assistance programs, federal tax benefits that may help offset care costs, and a few additional ways families can save as they plan for care. Wisconsin's main subsidy program is Wisconsin Shares, which helps eligible families pay a portion of their child care costs.
- Center Discounts & Subsidy Programs
- Child Care Assistance Programs in Wisconsin
- Federal Child Care Tax Credits
- Additional Ways Families Can Save on Child Care
Child Care Assistance Programs Accepted at Quokka Kids
We welcome families who may qualify for child care financial assistance. Based on the client questionnaire, our center accepts subsidized families and also offers sibling and military discounts. These options can help make care more manageable for working families while giving children access to a nurturing, play-based environment.
Wisconsin Shares
Wisconsin Shares is Wisconsin's child care subsidy program that helps eligible families pay part of child care costs while parents work, attend school, or complete approved training. Families apply through the state, and approved benefits are loaded to a MyWIChildCare EBT card to pay authorized providers; parent copayments may still apply.
Sibling Discounts
We offer sibling discounts to help make quality child care more affordable for families enrolling more than one child. If you are planning care for multiple children, contact our team to learn how sibling pricing may apply to your household.
Military Discounts
We also offer military discounts as a way to support families who serve our communities and country. If you are an active-duty service member, veteran, or military family member, contact Quokka Kids to ask how this discount may apply to your enrollment.
Child Care Subsidy Programs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers child care financial assistance through Wisconsin Shares. This program is designed to help eligible families pay for child care while they work, attend school, or participate in approved training. The program covers a portion of the cost rather than the full tuition, helping make care more accessible for families who qualify.
Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy
Wisconsin Shares supports eligible families by funding part of the cost of care. To apply, families can use Wisconsin's ACCESS system online or contact their local Income Maintenance Agency. The process includes applying, completing an eligibility interview, choosing a child care provider, and requesting an authorization. Once approved, the monthly subsidy is loaded onto the parent's MyWIChildCare EBT card, and the parent uses that card to pay the authorized provider. Families are responsible for any required copayment and may also owe any difference between the provider's price and the subsidy amount.
Read more Wisconsin Shares Child Care Subsidy Program
Who Qualifies for Child Care Subsidies?
Eligibility for Wisconsin Shares is based on several factors, including household income, family size, and whether the parent or caregiver is working or participating in an approved activity such as education or training. At initial application, family gross income must not be more than 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, and families may remain financially eligible until income reaches 85% of the state median income.
How to Apply for Child Care Assistance
Families can apply for Wisconsin Shares online through ACCESS or by contacting their local agency. The state recommends having verification documents ready, such as proof of identity, residency, income, school or work activity, and information about the child needing care. After the application and interview are completed, families receive a written eligibility decision and, if approved, can move forward with provider authorization and payment setup.
Federal Tax Credits That Help With Child Care Costs
In addition to subsidies, many families qualify for federal tax credits that can significantly reduce the overall cost of child care. These credits are claimed when filing your taxes and are not administered through the daycare.
Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit
This credit allows families to claim a percentage of qualifying child care expenses each year.
IRS – Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit Page
Child Tax Credit (CTC)
Eligible families may claim a credit for each qualifying child, depending on income and filing status.
IRS – Child Tax Credit Page
Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
The EITC helps low- to moderate-income working families reduce taxes owed or receive a refund.
IRS – Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Some employers offer a Dependent Care FSA, allowing families to set aside pre-tax income for child care expenses.
IRS – About Form 2441 (Child and Dependent Care Expenses).
Additional Ways Families Can Save on Child Care
Beyond subsidies and tax benefits, families may be able to reduce child care costs by asking about current discounts, planning ahead for openings, and keeping organized records for tax time. At Quokka Kids, families can ask about sibling and military discounts, current availability, and the best next steps for enrollment. If you think you may qualify for Wisconsin Shares, it is also helpful to apply early and keep your documents ready so the process goes more smoothly. Federal tax benefits generally require provider information and Form 2441, so keeping receipts and enrollment records can also help at tax time.
Need help understanding your child care cost options in Beaver Dam, WI?
We're happy to answer questions about discounts, availability, and next steps.