I love seeing the progress of each child who attends my program. I am proud to know that I am one of the people who positively influences the life and future of each child and their family. Our community must know the importance of early childhood education.
– Carime Ruvalcaba, Owner, Karime Child Care LLC

Today’s message is from Dimensions Foundation Marketing Director, Kara Ficke. Kara spent nearly two years managing an early childhood awareness campaign in Nebraska alongside state partners, advocates, and community members.

Across the US, grassroots advocacy for early care and education is on the rise. During the presidential debate last month, the candidates were asked about child care costs. Like many of you, in that moment, I found myself shouting “FINALLY!” to then have the question never answered.

The fact that the question even came up means we are creating enough surround-sound that, among other issues facing the American people, child care is a top concern. As it should be. Early childhood professionals are not only the workforce behind the workforce, but they are caring for and learning alongside our youngest citizens…teaching foundational skills that will last a lifetime.

Every state, every community is unique, yet one thing we all have in common is the need for families to have access to quality, affordable, early childhood education and early childhood educators.

Here are some helpful tools from a few ECE advocacy organizations that have made it easy to get involved in this issue and resources to share your voice:

• Child Care Aware Advocacy
• Start Early Advocacy Toolkit
• Defending the Early Years Advocacy Map
• NAEYC Public Policy and Advocacy

One of the best ways to advocate for something you believe in is to tell your story. Why is early care and education important to you? Share your story with us.