Ways to Advocate for Affordable and Accessible Childcare in Your Community

There is no doubt that professional childcare is costly, no matter where you live. It is one of the many reasons people must advocate for affordable and accessible childcare within their community. Sitting back and waiting to see what happens often feels more effortless, but nothing changes when people do not speak up.

The following are some ways to make your voice heard about the need for better childcare options in your area.

(a) Attend Local Meetings

Attending local government meetings, such as town hall meetings, is a great way to discover what is happening in your community. It is also an opportunity to hear what other residents say, how government officials respond, and offer your opinions. Consider it a chance to start the conversation about affordable and accessible childcare, even if the issue is not on the agenda.

(b) Be Open to Compromise

Many hold so tight to their opinions that they can often lose sight that their thoughts and ideas might complement another person’s, even if they are not entirely in sync. Be open to hearing about the ideas and opinions of others. You never know if all of you can come to a beautiful (workable) compromise.

(c) Express How You Feel in a Rational Manner

Affordable and accessible childcare is understandably a topic that many feel passionate about. Hot topics can often lead to cursing and yelling while debating with another person, but when that happens, it is easy for everyone to go on the defensive and not want to hear what the other has to say. When both of you express yourselves calmly and rationally, that is often when both sides can truly hear each other out.

(d) Know the Statistics and Talking Points

If you voice your opinions about childcare in your area, have statistics to back up what you have to say. It can make your talking points sound more valid when you have facts included that people cannot dispute.

(e) Understanding the Needs of the Local Community

Hear out local parents about how they feel regarding childcare. The more you understand the needs of those affected within your local community, the better your talking points could be. It will not just be your opinions and thoughts but a combination of those who feel the same way you do and want change.

(f) Do Not Be Afraid to Speak Up About Your Ideas

It can feel intimidating to speak up, but your ideas are important and matter, especially when it comes to such an important issue. If you are nervous about publicly voicing your opinions, start small in a way with which you are comfortable. The more comfortable you get, the more you will be willing to speak your mind openly.

(g) Get to Know the People in Your Local Government

Members of your local government have the power to change things within your community, but you have to know who to talk to in the first place. Do your research, find out who can compel change regarding childcare, and learn more about what they stand for, so you can figure out the best method for getting your voice heard.

(h) Get to Know More People in Your Community

Getting to know the parents and non-parents in your community can be a great way to advocate for more affordable and accessible childcare. Speaking with other locals allows you to hear different opinions and ideas, helps you make new friends and meet fellow advocates, and can be a way to make connections. You also never know when you could meet someone who is either a member of the government or knows someone who is.

(i) Request Meetings

Reach out to those in your local government who have a say about childcare within your community, and ask if you can set up one-on-one meetings. Some may be all for it while others are totally against it, but that does not mean you should not give it a shot to make your voice heard by those with a lot of sway over what happens.

(j) Vote in Elections

Never think your vote will not matter in local, state, or federal elections. Learn more about the candidates, get out there, and vote, and you can even consider volunteering at the polls. Another way to help is to transport those who could use a ride, such as senior citizens, so they can also vote.

(k) Make Relevant Posts on Social Media

Almost everyone has social media nowadays, but only some use it for good. Be one of the people who uses their voice publicly in a way that can benefit others. Speak up about childcare in your community, whether you make videos or written posts. You never know if your well-spoken ideas will be able to reach the right people and inspire others also to speak up.

Not all parents have loved ones able or willing to step up and offer help, which is why affordable and accessible childcare is so important in every community. You never know when the words you speak can have a positive influence or when your ideas can be the start of change. It should be an essential issue to parents and non-parents alike, and the more people are aware of it, the higher the chances are that you or others can come up with solutions that can help.

– Sandra Chiu works as Director at LadyBug & Friends Daycare and Preschool.