August means “Recess” on Capitol Hill—a time when federal lawmakers return to their districts and reconnect with their constituents. However, recess is not a vacation for them or for us. The weeks that members of Congress are away from their offices in Washington, D.C. give us an opportunity to remind them about the importance of child care.
We must use this time to tell our members of Congress that the average annual price of child care is $13,128 for just one child, and the President’s latest budget proposal threatens the support working families need to make sure their children have a strong early start. We make the case that building child care infrastructure creates a stronger economy for us all.
As advocates for affordable, accessible, and high-quality child care, we each bring something different to the playground of progress.
No matter your style, there’s a way for everyone to get in the game this August and make this a meaningful Recess to build a brighter future for children and families. So—what recess game matches your advocacy approach?
Tag: The Rapid Responder
You’re quick, nimble, and always ready to take action!
Just like a game of tag, you’re always on the move—sending messages to lawmakers, signing petitions, and making your voice heard in real time. You don’t wait for someone to tap you in—you’re already running!
Your move: Use our Action Center to contact your Member of Congress today. Or switch it up for a game of freeze tag and amplify your impact with a partner by sharing our Action Center with your network!
Show and Tell: The Message Sharer
You know that a powerful story or message can leave a lasting impact.
Much like show and tell, you take something meaningful—a personal story, a key data point, or a resource—and present it to others so they can learn and take action too. You shine when you help others understand why child care matters.
Your move: Submit a letter to the editor about affordable child care’s positive effects on your community and use our policy resources make your case. For a data driven argument, feel free to cite Child Care in America: 2024 Price & Supply.
Red Rover: The Connector
“Red Rover, Red Rover, send an advocate right over!” You’re all about building strength in numbers. Whether it’s forwarding an email, texting a friend, or sharing a toolkit with your coworkers, you’re constantly inviting new people into the movement.
Your move: Schedule a joint meeting with your local partners and members of Congress at their district or state offices—get on their calendar and get on their calendar early! Recess is a time to hear from constituents—and the more the merrier! Make your voice heard by speaking clearly and directly to those returning to D.C. in September.
Rainbow Parachute: The Showstopper
You know how to both play as a team and give individuals their time to shine—you're capable of creating the perfect environment to bring joy and collaborate on a shared vision.
Your move: Invite your lawmaker to their local child care center—nothing beats firsthand experience to further your legislators’ support for early childhood education. Advocate Mary Jannsen does a great job of explaining how to do this in her Advocate Spotlight.
Sidewalk Chalk: The Creative Advocate
You express your advocacy in ways that are colorful, thoughtful, and highly visible. Whether it’s writing a social media post or organizing a community event, you draw people in with creative energy and heartfelt messages.
Your move: Use our graphics and sample posts to speak up online and inspire others to act.
Duck, Duck, Goose: The Community Builder
You’re always circling the crowd, looking for the right moment to bring someone into the action. You know advocacy is a team sport, and you’re great at energizing your community—whether online, in a staff meeting, or around the dinner table.
Your move: Host a pre-town hall get together for your network. Many Members of Congress want to bring their constituents together during August—find an event on their website, prepare some questions as a group, and make it a fun outing together! For more information about finding a town hall near you, please view our previously recorded webinar, How to Maximize Congressional Recess.
Everyone Has a Place on the Playground
Whether you’re the first to jump into action or the one cheering others on from the sidelines, there’s no wrong way to be an advocate. Our movement needs all kinds of players—and there’s a role just right for you.
So, grab your gear, round up your team, and let’s get to work. Together, we can build a better, stronger, and more equitable child care system for all families.
