Back to Basics: Essential Components of An American Early Care and Education System
Infrastructure and system are two words often neglected in discussions of early childhood policy. This paper is about these all-important and hidden “basics”. It offers a working definition of an early care and education system, and of its infrastructure. The paper unequivocally states that unless the system and the infrastructure are addressed and supported, there is little opportunity for achieving quality and the desired outcomes as a result of policy change.
Explore More
From Barriers to Opportunity: Confronting Systemic Barriers to Early Childhood and Poverty-Reduction Programs
Report December 12, 2024
This report from EdTrust-New York highlights a crisis in childcare availability, with more than 60% of New York classified as a childcare desert. Recent improvements to the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) have not significantly increased accessibility, as families still encounter complex application processes and stringent eligibility requirements. Many parents struggle to find available slots or are unaware of available programs altogether.
Collective Caregiving: A Frame for Talking About What Kids and Families Need to Thrive
Report December 12, 2024
In this brief from Frame Works, you will find an overview of a new framing strategy for building support for kids–focused on collective caregiving–along with three recommendations for putting the strategy into practice. Each recommendation includes specific tips and examples of what it looks like.
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Funding Compendium
Report December 12, 2024
This funding compendium helps states, territories, Tribes, and local communities leverage existing federal resources to address the mental health needs of young children and their families. It outlines key activities in the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) continuum and highlights available federal funding opportunities.