In October, we asked you, the providers, to share your stories and tell us what you want Congress to know about family child care, and ultimately what “Solve Child Care” means in your world.
These were some of the responses we received:
“I want to start off by saying that I am so very appreciative of the assistance and support we have been given since COVID became a part of our lives. It is sad that it has taken this pandemic to finally be recognized as an integral part of the work force.
I am blessed! My business has always been good. Maybe not financially fruitful, but greatly respected and needed in our community. Now, possibly more than ever.
I would love for our vocation to continue to be rewarded for our staying power and dedication. I have always wished that we were offered incentives like other State Employees. Trust me, I am a State Employee in this vocation. I’m licensed by the State of Arkansas, adhere to State and Federal laws and guidelines. Why not recognize and appreciate us? Especially the driven childcare providers who eat, sleep and breath childcare.
I just lost my mother a week ago. Was there any bereavement pay? Without my husband I wouldn’t have insurance. I don’t get discounts on cell phone bills. There is NO retirement. Not a penny. I would love to see us offered such benefits.
I have voiced my opinion and where I would love to see childcare professionals be honored. Please consider what I have voiced. My voice is small, but with your assistance it can be a roar.”
– Jeanie, Arkansas
“It means to me the importance of parents being comfortable leaving their children with someone that cares and nurtures their children as they would in their home. Family Child Care Homes are considered ‘A Home Away from Home.’ We are educators, not just Child Care Providers. Children are our upmost concern.”
– Matline, Florida
“Being a provider means long days and hard work. It can physically, mentally, and emotionally hard. It is high stress. To be a provider you have to be a 2nd mom, teacher, counselor to littles and parents, a good listener, supporter, cook and baker, cleaner, hugger and kisser, diaper changer and much more. Those are on the scene.
Off the scene we have to be knowledgeable about business and finance, friendly and patient during times of parental disagreements, and at the top of our game constantly! I LOVE my job, but the financial stress and desire to better my program costs money. As a home provider we don’t have access to much funding to help with those high costs… Home providers need funding to help with essential upgrades and curriculum investments… I take pride in striving to be one of the best, but its taking me a great deal of time with lack of helpful funding.”
– Micole, Nebraska
“Congress needs to invest in children to have better future and leaders! Give all children and families equal opportunity in getting quality child care! Provide and support family child care providers with well-deserved wages, tools, trainings, medical benefits, and retirement package. This way we will have a quality child care system with providers who can support their families and sustain their business exceeding the expectations of parents and the community.”
– Deotina, California
“I want Members of Congress to remember that it takes a village to raise a child. Childcare providers need the extra support in order to better assist our families. We have been doing the work for years, now it is time for Congress to join us as we work to positively impact the lives of the children we care for. I firmly believe that this support could change childcare, and the way we have known it to be. Great things can truly happen with more helping hands.”
– Geovanny, New York
“We are essential workers! We are early childhood educators! Your children see us before any other facility…elementary, middle school, high school, or college. We are the ones that prepare your children. ALL sides would benefit. Support our field.”
– Deanna, California
What does it mean to you?
Members of Congress and leaders in our states, cities and counties are making decisions each day that impact the success of family child care.
What would it mean to you if we got to Solve Child Care in this country?
Your experiences drive our advocacy at NAFCC. We are working to ensure those concerns are heard and your crucial role is named and recognized as we build back better, together.
