Get Involved
Public Policy
Why Child Care Matters, even if you don’t have Young Children
- What does the child care landscape look like in Montana? Click HERE to get a snapshot of affordability, accessibility, and quality of care in our state.
- Child care is essential to the health of our local workforce and economy. Click HERE to learn more about child care and Montana’s workforce.
- Research shows that 90% of brain development occurs in the first five years of life. Click HERE to learn more about the importance of quality learning in early childhood .
Advocacy
Child Care is Essential
With a state shortage in licensed child care, many of Montana’s children don’t have access to affordable, quality care. At the same time, Montana businesses struggle to recruit and retain a quality workforce. More than ever, we need sustainable investment in early childhood to support families, caregivers, and Montana’s economy. Below, you can find tools to help you connect with local elected officials, understand the value of early childhood, and help be a voice for child care in your community.
Public Policy Toolkit
Tools to Help you get Started!
Tips to help you talk to policymakers
Contacting local leaders and policymakers is a direct way to impact the policies that affect your community. There a lot of ways to get in touch with your elected official. You might choose to give them a call, write an email, or send a letter in the mail. Here are some friendly tips for how to talk to policymakers in your community:
Start your message by letting them know who you are: simply introducing yourself is a great way to start! Make sure to let them know that you live in their district. They represent you and should care about what you have to say!
State your stance on a specific issue: This is a good time to be specific. Let them know your concerns, and offer solutions for how to address your issue. Is there a specific policy you would like to address? Share your stance and how you would like them to vote on this policy.
Make your message personal: How does this issue impact you and your community? Let them know!
Keep it brief: Elected officials can be very busy. Make your message short and to the point to keep their attention on what matters.
Show Gratitude: A small thank you can go a long way, especially when a policy maker supports your vote, or addresses your concern. Thank you notes can remind them that you are paying attention and shows that you appreciate the hard work they are doing.
Click below to find who represents you:
Other ways you can Advocate
- Write a letter to the editor- writing an opinion piece is an effective way to share your knowledge with policymakers and your community. Use this template from NAEYC to help build your letter.
- Learn more about early childhood in your community with Kids Count Montana
- Share your story! Tell your friends, employers, co-workers, and family members what makes you passionate about improving the quality, accessibility, and affordability of child care.
Keep up with Early Childhood Issues
Expand your public policy knowledge and build your advocacy skills with the resources below!
Legislative Session 101
- Montana’s Citizen Legislature Demystified! – check out this speech about Montana’s legislature, how policies are made in our State, and how you can participate
- 2023 Legislative Session Information– Look up bill and hearing information, important dates, committee information, and how to get involved.
- Civics 101 Review- learn how a bill becomes law with the classic throwback from Schoolhouse Rock!
