Florida Mom Shocked by $1,950 Monthly Daycare Fee for Special Needs Child: “They Don’t Know How to Handle a Special Needs Child, So They’re Scared to Accept Them”
TAMPA, FLORIDA — A Florida mother is speaking out after learning that daycare for her child with Down syndrome would cost nearly $2,000 a month — a price she says makes care financially impossible and exposes how inaccessible child care can be for families of children with special needs.
The mother, who goes by @domesticatingdana on TikTok, shared her frustration in a now-viral video, revealing that the only daycare near her home and work willing to accept her son quoted her an astonishing $1,950 monthly rate.
“I just can’t afford that,” Dana said. “It’s more than most people’s mortgage payments.”
Mother Says Only One Facility Will Accept Her Child
Dana explained that her son has Down syndrome but “no major health concerns” and “no mobility issues.” Despite that, she said most local daycares refuse to accept him. The only one that would — a “designated special needs facility” located in a church basement — does not offer part-time or flexible options.
@domesticatingdana It should also be noted that that facility is 20 minutes from where I will be working. The only option I have. They are also a designated special needs facility, in a church basement. And will not offer any part-time options either. Which would make it so much more accessible for so many more families. sspecialneedsparentm#momlife
“I only need him there three half-days,” Dana said, “but they only offer full days, five days a week.”
The limited options have left her asking an impossible question: “How am I supposed to work if I can’t find care for my child?”
Her emotional post struck a chord with many parents facing similar struggles, especially in states where specialized childcare programs are scarce or unaffordable.
‘It’s Not Just About Money — It’s About Accessibility’
While Dana clarified that she isn’t accusing the daycare of discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — which prohibits charging higher rates for children with disabilities — she believes the situation highlights a systemic failure.
“The ADA makes it illegal to charge more because of a disability,” she said. “But charging nearly $2,000 a month when most families can’t afford it — that’s not accessible.”
Many commenters agreed, calling the price “insane” and pointing out that it effectively excludes families without technically breaking the law.
“This is heartbreaking,” one user wrote. “You’re not just fighting for care — you’re fighting to exist in a system that doesn’t want to make room for your child.”
Daycare Staff Member Speaks Out
Amid the online discussion, a self-identified daycare employee weighed in, claiming this issue often comes down to fear and lack of training among directors.
“I saw this a lot,” the staff member commented. “It’s almost always the director’s decision. They don’t know how to handle a special needs child, so they’re scared to accept them. A LOT of the teachers would actually be comfortable caring for your child.”
Their insight resonated with many viewers, who said the problem isn’t a lack of compassion — it’s a lack of resources and leadership willing to adapt.
Wider Frustration Over Childcare Costs
Dana’s story quickly went viral as parents across the country shared similar experiences. Some said they’ve had to quit their jobs or rely on relatives because of high daycare costs, while others said they faced long waiting lists for inclusive programs.
“This is not a one-time story,” one viewer said. “Families of children with special needs are getting priced out of care everywhere.”
Another wrote, “Accessibility doesn’t just mean having ramps and signs. It means making care financially possible.”
For Dana, the post wasn’t just about venting frustration — it was about bringing attention to how systemic barriers continue to hurt families like hers.
“I want my son to have a place where he belongs,” she said. “Not just a place that says they’ll take him — but one that truly includes him.”
What do you think — should daycare centers be required to offer affordable options for children with special needs? Share your thoughts and experiences at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
