PUBLIC POLICY
BE AN ADVOCATE FOR EARLY LEARNING & YOUTH SUCCESS
Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families, building a stronger, more literate community for all.
FEDERAL ACTION ON AFTERSCHOOL FUNDING THREATENS SUPPORT SYSTEMS IN MONTANA
Locally, this decision could impact Greater Gallatin United Way’s kidsLINK program, which supports 10 school sites in Gallatin and Park counties. The freeze is already impacting rural summer programs currently serving families and threatening the ability to prepare for fall. community.
CHILD CARE IS ESSENTIAL
Montana’s child care shortage leaves many children without access to affordable, quality care, while businesses face challenges recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce. Now more than ever, sustainable investment in early childhood is essential to support families, caregivers, and our local economy. Explore tools to connect with elected officials, champion early childhood, and advocate for solutions in your community.
WHY CHILD CARE MATTERS TO EVERYONE
Child care impacts everyone in our community, from families to businesses and beyond. Discover the current state of affordability, accessibility, and quality in Montana.
CHILD CARE AND THE
WORKFORCE
Child care is essential for a thriving economy, allowing parents to work and businesses to grow. Explore how access to child care supports Montana’s workforce.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY LEARNING
Did you know 90% of brain development occurs in the first five years of life? Learn how quality early learning programs shape brighter futures for children and communities.
POLICY TOOLKIT
TOOLS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED
TIPS TO HELP YOU TALK TO POLICYMAKERS
Montana’s child care shortage leaves many children without access to affordable, quality care, while businesses face challenges recruiting and retaining a skilled workforce. Now more than ever, sustainable investment in early childhood is essential to support families, caregivers, and our local economy. Explore tools to connect with elected officials, champion early childhood, and advocate for solutions in your community.
TESTIMONY TEMPLATE
Use this testimony template to help you advocate for early learning in our community, and throughout our. state.
LET THEM KNOW WHO YOU ARE
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
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 IT PERSONAL
Make your message personal: How does this issue impact you and your community? Let them know!
KEEP IT BRIEF
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
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.
FIND YOUR REPRESENTATIVES
Click below to find who represents you:
OTHER WAYS TO 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.
Educate yourself
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.
Montana Advocates for Children
NAEYC- National Association for the Education of Young Children
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 in the Legislative Session.
- 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!
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