Like so many other things, it is more expensive in Wisconsin.

Parents in the Badger State pay an average $9,300 per year to keep their pre-kindergartner in group child care, ranking the state among the least affordable in the country, according a new report.

And further down in the story, we see why.

Costs typically are higher in Wisconsin because the state has more licensing requirements and regulations than other states, she said.

“Quality costs money,” Breese said.

That’s true, but it is also true that high prices will lead to some families choosing to leave their kids alone or with unreliable family members. I also haven’t seen any studies that show that Wisconsin’s pre-K child care is any better than any other state’s – despite the extra expense and regulations.