Early Learning and Development

Promise 

Every baby and toddler is nurtured with pre-natal care, early
attachment to mom, a continuum of high-quality, early learning opportunities so they are ready for kindergarten.

Problem 

The earliest years of a child’s life are the time of greatest brain
development and opportunity. In 2021, there were only 8.7 million slots in licensed childcare centers and family care programs for 12.3 million children. Center-based child care for an infant costs more than public college tuition in 34 states and the District of Columbia. Black women are three to four times more likely to die from complications surrounding pregnancy and childbirth than White women.

Policy Path

In this zone, CDF will advocate for public policy related to:
(1) Maternal health and wellness, (2) Family Leave, (3) Home visitation, and (4) Quality early learning and development.

 

Moonshot Generational Commitment

Universal, public, quality pre-K for all young people beginning at three years old.

Learn More

Related Updates

  • Early Childhood

    The Truth About Youth Crime, Raise the Age

    I was 13 years old when New York decided my childhood was over. It wasn’t a weapon or a felony—it was a dollar. I bullied a classmate into giving it to me, and the state responded by sending me to jail.…

  • Women’s History Month: Celebrating CDF Legacy

    During March, we pause to recognize the visionary women whose leadership and courage have shaped a movement for children’s rights, equity, and social justice in honor of Women’s History Month.…

  • Immigration

    Marching to Free Children & Families: A Peace Walk in Solidarity with Families Detained in ICE Custody

    At Children’s Defense Fund-Texas, we work alongside advocates, faith leaders, and community members to protect children and families from harmful policies and systems. Our team also helps lead the National Coalition to End Family and Child Detention, a nationwide network working to end detention of children and families in immigration custody.…

  • Student Leaders Turning Advocacy into Action

    Black Student Leadership Network students are turning advocacy into action on their campuses. From organizing around education justice to expanding voter awareness, two student leaders share how their campaigns are equipping peers with knowledge, strengthening civic participation, and building momentum for change.…