Families head to U.S. Capitol to fight for focus on early childhood health and learning priorities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Every American can agree that our children’s future and safety must be protected. However, for families across the country, the well-being and outcomes of a young child’s life can be determined simply by where they live and their access, or lack thereof, to policies and programs that provide good health and access to high-quality care.

It’s something millions of parents find the federal government needs to step up and make a national priority – 87% of parents across both parties with infants and toddlers say addressing the needs of children and families should be a top priority in the budget consideration process, according to recent polling by Zero to Three and Morning Consult.

Moreso, close to 90% of parents are fearful of potential Congressional cuts to vital safeguards like child care, special education programs, affordable housing, and even children’s healthcare. 

That’s why families across the country take to the streets (and sidewalks) of our nation’s capitol in the 8th annual Strolling Thunder rally on Capitol Hill. Babies, parents, and caregivers will meet with members of Congress to urge the passage of key legislation that supports good health, strong families, and positive early learning experiences.

Strolling Thunder is a project of ZERO TO THREE’s Think Babies initiative, a national movement for policymakers to prioritize the needs of infants, toddlers, and their families and to invest in our nation’s future through key policy initiatives surrounding topics like maternal health, infant and childhood mental health, early learning, and childcare.