December is a time for reflection, hope, and yes—wish list making. As we look toward the new year, the child care field has some big wishes. These aren't asks for toys or gadgets, but for the foundational supports that children, families, and providers desperately need.
Think of this as our letter to policymakers—a roadmap for what would truly make a difference in communities across the country. Because when we invest in child care, everyone benefits: parents can work with peace of mind, local economies grow stronger, and children get the solid foundation they need for a successful future.
Our wish: That Congress displays even more support for child care policies that take steps to improve the child care system.
For too long, child care programs have been expected to do more with less—trying to balance paying hardworking staff competitive wages while keeping tuition affordable for families. And, parents often struggle to find and afford high quality care for their children. Even with the challenges, we also know the positive effects of childcare in communities. When families are able to access the care they need, they are able to work or attend school, which also supports local economies. And as parents know, early childhood education supports brain development for children at a key life stage.
The child care system needs support and resolutions to the many challenges facing providers, families, and communities. Our wish is to see more support from members of Congress for policy that would take steps forward to improve the child care system.
These are policies like those included in the bipartisan Child Care Modernization Act, that builds on existing, proven strategies and strengthens the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG), and the Child Care for Working Families Act, which would help ensure more families have access to high-quality, affordable child care, and would expand federal financial investment in child care.
Child Care Aware® of America is pleased to see policy proposals that recognize that we must do more to make child care more affordable and more available, alongside strong investments in our child care system. It is our hope that more members of Congress support these policies, and we look forward to continuing to work with Congress on solutions that ensure more children and families have access to affordable high-quality child care.
Our wish: That Congress increases investment in federal child care programs for the current fiscal year, FY26.
Here's the reality: families need to be able to afford safe and accessible child care, and Congress can do something about it! As our Senators and Representatives make decisions about funding in the new year, child care should be as much a priority for them as it is for the communities they serve.
As Congress negotiates FY26 appropriations, the child care field is watching closely. The Senate has proposed modest increases—$85 million more for CCDBG and the same for Head Start—but we need Congress to go further.
We're also asking Congress to protect critical programs like Preschool Development Grants and Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS), which strengthen state systems and help student parents stay in school. These programs work—they shouldn't be on the chopping block.
At a time when families are already stretched thin and the average annual price of child care sits at $13,128 for one child, we need investments that match the scale of the challenge.
Our wish: That decisionmakers recognize and invest in Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&Rs) organizations as the critical connective tissue that turns our fragmented childcare landscape into a functioning system.
For over 50 years, CCR&Rs have connected families with the right child care solution for them. They're the organizations that help families navigate their child care options, support providers in starting and sustaining quality programs, train and mentor the child care workforce, collect real-world data that informs smarter policy decisions, and partner with businesses to solve their employees' child care challenges. With increased support, CCR&Rs can reach their full potential and serve more families and providers.
Here's what makes CCR&Rs uniquely valuable: they offer full-service solutions that impact all parts of the system at once. When they support child care teachers and business owners, they learn what's really working—and what's not—to improve training, resources, and regulations. This comprehensive approach drives better outcomes because CCR&Rs see the whole landscape.
Our wish for the new year is that policymakers, business leaders, and communities recognize CCR&Rs as essential infrastructure—not optional add-ons—and invest accordingly. When CCR&Rs are comprehensive, integrated, and properly funded, they transform a patchwork of programs into a system that helps families work, supports children's development, and keeps our economy growing.
Wishlist season is fun, but here's the thing—these wishes won't come true on their own. They need advocates like you to speak up, show up, and make your voice heard.
The FY26 appropriations process is happening right now, and Congress needs to hear from constituents in every corner of the country about why child care funding matters. One thing not our wishlist – a great advocate community (because we already have it!). We at Child Care Aware® of America are so grateful to support all of you; together we work to make our wishes a reality.
Your move: Contact your members of Congress today about the need to fund child care in 2026. Whether you're a parent with a young child, a provider molding young minds, or a community member who understands that childcare strengthens local economies—your voice matters.
Once you have joined us for the FY26 appropriations campaign, join us for another!
Here's to a new year filled with progress, investment, and a child care system that works for everyone.