Episode #189
#189: Making Summer Work While We Work: Before You Book the Camp
School just started, so why are we already talking about summer camp and childcare? Because your opportunity to financially plan for next summer may happen months before summer arrives. This week, Athena and Mims are talking about Dependent Care elections—a benefit many working parents may have available through their employers but may not fully understand or plan for in time. Mims shares how difficult it can be to make an election when you haven't yet figured out next summer's camps, childcare needs, dates, or costs. The takeaway: your benefits-election timeline and your summer-planning timeline need to start talking to each other. Before open enrollment, start estimating how much childcare you'll actually need, researching programs and their registration timelines, and checking with HR about your employer's Dependent Care benefit—including what expenses are eligible. Then, when it's time to make your election, you can use actual projected costs instead of a guess. Dependent Care: Put This on Your Fall Checklist ✨ Find out when your employer's election period happens. Don't assume it follows the calendar year. ✨ Ask HR how your Dependent Care benefit works and what types of childcare and summer programs are eligible. Not every camp will necessarily qualify. ✨ Estimate next summer's childcare needs now: number of weeks, children's ages, work schedules, vacations and other coverage. ✨ Research camps and costs before making your election so you're not choosing an amount blindly. ✨ Track registration fees, weekly costs and receipts so you understand what you're actually spending and have the documentation you need. Share your thoughts on journaling to tornmlb@gmail.com Follow @TornMLB on Instagram , Facebook , and X . Choose Grace, Torn Tribe
