A coalition of 88 organizations has voiced their concerns to President Trump regarding the urgent need for improvements in child care and early education for young children and their families.
Importance of Early Years
Research underscores the pivotal role the early years play in a child’s growth, particularly within the first five years of life.
During this time, quality and affordable child care becomes essential—not just for the well-being of families, but also for the health of our economy.
Sadly, many families struggle to find child care that is both affordable and readily available.
Call to Action
In response to this critical issue, a diverse coalition of 88 organizations from both state and national levels, led by members of the Federal Child CARE Coalition, reached out to President Trump.
Their message was unified and urgent: child care must be made a priority.
The conversation around child care is not confined to one political party; it resonates widely.
Initiatives discussed during the 2019 White House talks about child care reform, as well as recent legislative efforts from both sides, reveal a growing recognition of the challenges families encounter.
These challenges demand actionable solutions, not just recognition.
Pathway Forward
It’s crucial that we transition from acknowledgment to action, and a comprehensive strategy is needed.
To enhance child care accessibility for families, we must focus on fortifying established federal programs like the Child Care and Development Block Grant.
Additionally, improving tax benefits such as the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, promoting employer-sponsored child care, and creating pathways for increasing both the supply and quality of child care are all vital steps.
It’s equally important to cultivate a skilled workforce ready to meet this demand.
As we approach a new legislative session, lawmakers have a significant opportunity.
By prioritizing child care policy, they can advance not only the well-being of families but also the broader economic landscape of our nation.
Now is the time to elevate our commitment to child care and early education.
Source: The74million