The survey of 4,359 parents found 58% had cut spending on other essentials like clothing, heating and other bills.
Nearly two-thirds said they could not afford not to work, but struggled to pay for childcare.
Four out of 10 families surveyed said the cost of childcare was on a par with their mortgage or rent.
The study suggests the cost of childcare has the greatest consequences for the poorest families.
Childcare experts Laura and Ali give guidance to reasonable nursery costs and when you should consider yourself overcharged.
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