Every year, Congress makes decisions on funding priorities including key early childhood programs like Child Care and Development Block Grant, Head Start, and IDEA preschool special education and early intervention. This year, Congress approved a temporary budget to keep programs funded but must pass a full budget by January 30 to prevent another government shutdown. Now more than ever it’s crucial that Congress provides robust investments for ECE as state funding faces tough challenges, leading to fewer child care slots, growing waiting lists, lower reimbursement for programs, and higher costs for families.  

NAEYC and our partners continue to advocate that Congress comes together to pass appropriations bills that prioritize the needs of early educators, children and families.   

We need your voice alongside ours.  

Take action today and urge your members of Congress to pass appropriations legislation that prioritizes young children, families, and educators.