Nebraska is ranked 1st in the U.S. for percentage of single mothers with children under age 6 working outside the home and 2nd in the U.S. for percentage of married couple families with both spouses working outside the home. That means child care is a necessity for many families. Quality child care provides a strong learning foundation for our youngest children, and a much-needed support for working parents.
It’s National Small Business Week which, for the past 50 years, has been a time to recognize entrepreneurs and small business owners who make critical contributions to our country. Child care providers are often overlooked, but important, small businesses that are critical for state and community growth. Safe and enriching learning environments for children increases parents’ participation in the workforce and allows them to be productive in their work while being confident about their children’s well-being.
First Five Nebraska is committed to helping child care providers acquire the resources they need to keep our children safe, provide high-quality environments and maintain a qualified early childhood workforce. Quality child care is a pillar of a sustainable and thriving community. Investing in these small businesses provides support for both our current and future workforce, and also attracts new families and businesses to communities. To help Nebraska grow, we must support the child care industry.
Elizabeth Lopez Everett
Policy Associate
First Five Nebraska