Support a mixed provider delivery system
Whether early childhood programs are delivered by public, private, or nonprofit providers, communities should ensure that quality programs are available and convenient for the families who need them.
Encourage early learning system and K–12 alignment
Too often, children are in programs that do not adequately prepare them for success in kindergarten. Encouraging better alignment between early learning programs and kindergarten will help children learn to the best of their ability.
Promote early learning policies as part of the economic development agenda
Several studies have shown the return on investment that early learning programs can bring to communities. From the number of people employed to the supports provided to working parents to the long-term benefits for children who attend high-quality programs, early learning policies should be considered with the economic development plans
Encourage the inclusion of early childhood data in the statewide longitudinal data system
As a nation, we need more information about which programs work, who benefits, and where we need new and better solutions. Tying early childhood data to statewide longitudinal data systems will help provide the information that policymakers and parents need.
Encourage your state to adopt a Quality Recognition Information System (QRIS)
Many states have worked to implement QRIS to distinguish between high-quality programs and programs that need improvement. Rating systems are one way to achieve transparency and accountability so that parents and policymakers know which programs meet quality standards.
Encourage business organizations and networks to adopt a policy position in support of public investments for effective, high quality early education programs
Many chambers have included such a statement in their public policy agenda. Ensure that your chamber, as well as other business networks such as Rotary, Kiwanis, and others, adopts this priority and follow up with policy makers. Encourage business organizations and networks to adopt a policy position in support of public investments for effective, high quality early education programs Many chambers have included such a statement in their public policy agenda. Ensure that your chamber, as well as other business networks such as Rotary, Kiwanis, and others, adopts this priority and follow up with policy makers.
