Child Care in the News: Rising Attendance in Home-Based Programs, Policy Setbacks, and the Power of Educator Voice

This week’s child care headlines spotlight the growing promise of home-based care, the critical voices of early educators, and the troubling policy shifts that threaten family well-being. From reports of federal budget proposals that undercut vital food and health supports, to renewed calls for robust family-friendly policies, the news underscores the urgency for a system that truly supports families, caregivers, and children. Here’s what you need to know.

American Parents Deserve Better Family-Friendly Policies

The 74 Million argues that U.S. families are stuck in outdated systems that don’t reflect the realities of caregiving today. With soaring child care costs and a lack of paid leave, parents are left without support. The piece calls for modern, family-first policies to help caregivers thrive—not just survive.🔗 Read article

Home-Based Child Care Programs Are on the Rise

EdSurge reports a promising shift: after years of decline, home-based child care programs are growing again. Thanks to pandemic-era investments and flexible state policies, more providers are opening their homes to care for young children.🔗 Read article

Why Early Educators’ Voices Matter

The 74 Million highlights the lived experiences of early educators who are too often left out of policy conversations. Their stories reflect passion, struggle, and wisdom—and the piece makes a compelling case for why their input is essential to shaping the future of child care.🔗 Read article

Congressional Budget Cuts Threaten Children's Health and Nutrition

First Focus on Children outlines how proposed federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other support programs would endanger children’s access to food, health care, and basic needs. These programs are lifelines for millions of families.🔗 Read article

Extreme Budget Plan Fails Families and Children

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities warns that the House Republicans’ proposed budget would deeply cut child care, education, and food aid. The plan prioritizes tax breaks for the wealthy while undermining the well-being of children and families.🔗 Read article