There is no getting away from the fact that single parents have to work to be able to feed, clothe, accommodate, and educate their children. The number of single-parent households has risen over the years and it is fair to say that single family homes with the lowest income are in the majority. How should a single mother then be able to go to work if there is no one to look after the children while she is at work during the day? She is in a catch-22 situation because to be able to go to work she needs daycare, and to get daycare she needs work to be able to pay for the looking after of her kids. Fortunately, there is support and aid for a single parent via several avenues. The following programs are worthwhile looking into.

1. For extremely low income families there are single parenting grants, not in the form of money, but in low cost or free daycare assistance through the Head Start program. This is a government program that offers parents of preschool and kindergarten age children assistance and counseling in obtaining proper daycare for their children. If you are on public assistance, you may consult with a social worker about the Head Start program and other services it may offer. There is also public assistance for single mothers.
2. Another option is government assistance programs for single mothers which are need-based and where the household income will determine your eligibility for such a program. If you do not qualify for government assistance or the Head Start program, you can try the church. Many of them have preschools with extended hours. They may reduce school tuition if you are a church member and have a need for daycare. These schools do not have the same strict requirements as government programs, and other private schools may offer assistance programs where you will be required to fill out a financial aid form. This is the same form that will be used in the application for college loans and scholarships. Complete the application and forward it with your most recent tax return. You won't wait long for a response.
3. There are also church schools and private schools which are willing to help provide daycare assistance. Use these opportunities to your advantage. There are many options available for single parents with preschool age children. The bottom line, however, is that single parents must work and they do need assistance with day care and a place for their children to be safely looked after during the day.
4. As a last resort, if you absolutely just cannot find help, you can always work with some of the daycare centers for a reduced cost in exchange for clerical help with their books which you can do at home. Pre-schools need help with filing and other clerical work. Don't be afraid or shy to suggest it. Often single parents have to think outside of the box when it comes to their kids.