Join Nebraska’s premier early childhood policy leadership initiative
Apply now to join the 2026-2027 Nebraska Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy!

Early Childhood Policy
We help government officials make informed, strategic decisions.

Strategic Engagement
We bring more people into the early childhood conversation.

Research & Analysis
We illuminate the issues with credible information and insight.
Successful Children. Strong Families.
Prosperous Communities.
We promote policies that support the early care, education and healthy development of our state’s youngest children—and create opportunity
for all Nebraskans.
Stay Current
The Economic Cost of Child Care Challenges in the Greater Omaha Region
In March, First Five Nebraska released Working Families, Working Economy: An Examination of the Economic Impact, Supply and Demand of the Child Care System in the Greater Omaha Chamber Region. The report was commissioned by the Greater Omaha Chamber (GOC) to better...
Regional Collaborations are Driving Change for Child Care in Nebraska
Over the past two years, the 6 Regions, One Nebraska initiative has helped put the issue of child care where it belongs—front-and-center in economic development strategy discussions throughout the state. While awareness of the state’s child care shortage isn’t new,...
Child Care Provider: Federal Food Program Should Reimburse Everyone Equally
Editor's Note: State Senator Bob Hallstrom (District 1) introduced Legislative Resolution 296 in the Unicameral this year. The resolution supports reimbursing family child care homes in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) at the higher Tier 1 rate and...
Help Build a Better Future for Nebraska’s Children & Families
For the past nine years, First Five Nebraska has been investing in advocates—people with conviction and a readiness to take the next step in their advocacy journey and move from personal passion to public policy. The magic of policy advocacy and community organizing...
Our Work Gives Children a Stronger Start — Here’s How You Can Help
Children's earliest years lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning, health and success—but that foundation is only as strong as the communities, systems and policies built to support it. Earlier this year, First Five Nebraska (FFN) joined with Communities for...
Governor Signs LB304 into Law; Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
The second session of the 109th Nebraska Legislature adjourned sine die April 17, wrapping up a busy 60-day, second session in the biennium. State senators introduced 547 bills this year, adding to the 715 from last year's 90-day session, for a combined 1,262 pieces...









