Child Care Provider Appreciation

From TFC President and CEO Paula Neth

Thank you to each and every child care provider who struggled and sacrificed throughout the pandemic. My promise to you is that we will do everything we can to ensure your sacrifice and the essential role you play in our community is not forgotten, and that we continually strive toward system improvements that builds on the amazing work you’re doing to provide a more equitable, high-quality child care system for children and adequate compensation for you.

I am hopeful that brighter days are ahead, both as the pandemic comes under control and as our country moves forward with bold initiatives to strengthen the child care sector. I am especially hopeful after learning about proposed legislative changes (The American Families Plan and The Child Care for Working Families Act).

Early education is arguably the greatest tool our community has to initiate positive change. The most critical period of human development occurs from the time children are born, to around age 5. During this time, children process and retain far more information than at any other point of their lives and, with the help of engaged parents and child care providers, cement critical foundational skills we often take for granted. 

As early educators, you are well aware of these facts and the great responsibility placed on your shoulders. You wear many hats. Beyond meeting basic needs like changing diapers and serving meals, you teach a group of children with drastically different needs, manage relationships with parents and often address an array of complex issues that get in the way of learning. Not only are you meeting basic needs and ensuring your children’s safety, you are experts in child development who engage children in brain-building activities that form a strong foundation for all future learning. You are an avenue for children to reach their fullest potential. 

Given all of the information I’ve previously shared, what are these highly-skilled, highly-educated professionals, who prepare children for success worth? They are definitely worth far more than the poverty wages many in the sector earn.

Together, we can create a child care system that works for all families and providers. Join our advocacy alerts email list to receive timely opportunities to influence change.