November is the month for giving thanks, and we’re grateful for all of the experiences we’ve shared as a team and with our partners this month and throughout the year. 

 

On November 15th, we hosted the inaugural Louisiana Early Childhood Fall Symposium, a dynamic day of learning and collaboration focused on the unique needs of our state. Bringing together business leaders, educators, policymakers, and advocates, the event sparked important conversations about how we can collectively support young children and families. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the symposium a success! For those of you who were unable to attend, please visit our Louisiana Early Childhood Fall Symposium page and watch any of the sessions you might find interesting.

 

We have a special call to action as we approach the season of giving thanks. Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity, is just around the corner on December 3rd. This annual event reminds us of the power of community support in helping Louisiana’s children thrive. Your contributions this Giving Tuesday will help us continue advocating for policies and programs that positively impact early childhood education across our state.

 

News You Can Snack On

​

Early Childhood Symposium Highlights the Importance of Early Childhood Development 

Dr. Candace Weber, chief of partnerships for LPIC says, “It is necessary for us to host symposiums like these in order to create solutions so these issues do not further impact children in Louisiana. It is likely that children who are not in child care programs are not being prepared to enter school, which could lead children to start school in need of remedial services.” Click here to read the full article.

​

First Five Years Fund 

Child care in the United States remains unaffordable, inaccessible, and in short supply. As we look to the new Congress and Administration, First Five Years Fund remains focused on the need for federal priorities that address these challenges for children, their families, employers, and providers. Click here to read the full article.

 

Policy Institute Celebrates 10 Years of Advocating for Louisiana’s Youngest Learners 

The Louisiana Policy Institute for Children (LPIC) is celebrating 10 years of service and reflects on the critical research, data, and legislative changes that have raised awareness, access, and historic funding for Louisiana’s young children and their families. Click here to read the full article.

 

Parent Input Needed in Louisiana Child Care Survey 

In recent years, the Parent Poll has highlighted key issues such as the rising cost of child care, concerns about affordability, and the lack of access to quality child care services. This year’s survey will continue to explore these topics and capture real-time insights into the experiences of Louisiana families. Click here to read the full article.

 

Episode 216: Early Education and Child Care – Where Are We At Now? 

In the second part of Biz New Orleans’ conversation with Dr. Libbie Sonnier at Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, she shares the organization’s plans for the future, including the conversations they’ve been having, and are continuing to have, with area businesses. Click here to read the full article.