*Please note: we have reached our top capacity for this event and are shifting to an interest list in cases where individuals are unable to attend. To attend virtually, join our Facebook livestream from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and use our digital toolkit to engage with your elected officials from the comfort of your home!
Think Babies Michigan (TBMI), Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children (Michigan AEYC), and Mothering Justice invite you to join the 2024 Early Childhood Capitol Day on Wednesday, March 20 at Central United Methodist Church: 215 North Capitol Ave, Lansing, MI 48933, starting 8:30 a.m.
Since the end of COVID-19 pandemic relief funding, Michigan providers have seen child care subsidy rates, a major financial outlet to sustain their businesses, slashed by 26 percent. This is estimated to force up to 1,200 child care businesses across Michigan to close unless lawmakers act now. As families grapple with decreases in child care supply options, advocates continue to push the Michigan Legislature to join a chorus of states and the District of Columbia in providing paid family and medical leave for all.
The 2024 Early Childhood Capitol Day brings parents, early childhood professionals, advocates, and community members together to elevate their voices and push for change through policy. Participants will hear directly from community leaders impacting Michigan families with young children and meet with state representatives and senators. Our message:
- Support paid family and medical leave in Michigan; and
- Increase funding for early childhood education and higher compensation for the early childhood workforce
If you are interested in attending, we encourage you to register today as space is limited. Upon registration, you will receive additional information regarding opportunities to participate in a virtual advocacy training, agenda, and other important materials.
We are enthusiastic to gather to help ensure all young children and their families in Michigan thrive.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Early Childhood Capitol Day 2024 is co-sponsored by Think Babies Michigan, Michigan AEYC, and Mothering Justice.
Resources: Prepare for Early Childhood Capitol Day
• Think Babies Michigan – 2023-2025 TBM Policy Priorities
• Michigan AEYC Policy Agenda
• Questions to Ask Lawmakers
• Tips for Engaging with Lawmakers
• Finding Commonalities and Solutions with Decision-Makers
• Meetings with Your Elected Officials
• True Cost of Care Talking Points
FAQ & Recommendations
Q. Will there be a virtual component to Early Childhood Capitol Day?
A. The event will be livestreamed on Facebook from 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. We also encourage parents, providers, and advocates across Michigan to elevate their voices on social media using our Early Childhood Capitol Day Toolkit. Help us urge lawmakers to prioritize early childhood in Michigan.
Q. Why are we gathering at a place of worship?
A. Due to limited meeting space availability in Lansing for a group our size and the importance of being close by the Capitol, we have chosen to utilize Central United Methodist Church for its facilities and proximity to the Michigan Statehouse.
Q. Will food be provided?
A. Yes, there will be a light breakfast and lunch provided. Please indicate any dietary restrictions on the registration form. We also encourage you to bring a water bottle.
Q. What should I pack with me?
A. Don’t forget an umbrella in case it rains, a water bottle, and business cards if you have them.
Q. Do I need to schedule the meeting with my legislator(s) in the afternoon?
A. No, we will schedule all legislative meetings for you.
Q. Is there a cost to participate in Early Childhood Capitol Day?
A. No, there is no cost to register or participate in Early Childhood Capitol Day.
Q. Can I bring my child(ren)?
A. This event lacks developmentally appropriate activities or space for children. For that reason and due to limitations in capacity we ask young children not to attend.
Q. What about travel and parking?
A. There are numerous parking ramps and lots available within a few blocks of Central United Methodist Church. For specific information on parking, check out these tools: Lansing Capitol Complex Map and Downtown Lansing Parking Map. Parking structures cost $3 per hour on average with $15 maximum.
Q. What should I wear?
A. We encourage everyone to wear business casual attire.
Examples of business causal attire include pencil skirts, slacks, khakis, trousers, blouses, collared shirts, button-down shirts, sport coats, blazers and sweaters. There will be a lot of walking on Early Childhood Capitol Day, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Shoes can include flats, lifestyle sneakers (with leather or canvas), Oxfords, loafers, mules, or boots.
Q. Will I earn MiRegistry Training Hours/SCECHs for attending this event?
A. Yes, three MiRegistry Training Hours/SCECHs are available to those who qualify.
Q. How do I find out who my State Representative is?
A. Look up your State Representative using your address here.
Q. How do I find out who my State Senator is?
A. Look up your State Senator using your address here.
Think Babies is staffed by the Early Childhood Investment Corporation.