Become a Friend of the Council!

Dear Friends,

The end of the year is a time to pause, look back and reflect then set new goals for the New Year. As we close this year in New York State, we recognize that it has been particularly challenging for children and families.

The Early Care & Learning Council is looking ahead to continue our efforts to promote excellence in early care and  education with equal access for all families. We do this primarily through the support of, and in partnership with, a strong network of community-based  organizations that provide Child Care Resource and Referral services.

Brain development research explains how children, from before they are born, are learning. These first few critical years of a child’s development form the foundation for learning and for success in school and life. Development can be enhanced by quality early care, health care and education. The quality of care a child receives from family members, child care providers or other caregivers can have significant impact on later learning and school readiness leaving the child ready to succeed in educational settings or at risk of failure.

In addition to keeping parents in the work force, high quality early care and learning prepares future generations for school and workplace success, and helps attract businesses to New York’s skilled work force. Our youngest citizens are tomorrow’s leaders and we need to provide a foundation for them to become productive adults who are capable of providing for themselves and strengthening our economy and our communities.

We will continue to educate and advocate for high quality child care to support early childhood learning and development to ensure that New York’s children are healthy and ready for school.  We will also continue to support our Child Care Resource and Referral agencies across the state.

Thank you for your support in 2011. We look forward to working with you in 2012. Please help us continue our efforts by making a donation to the Early Care & Learning Council. http://www.earlycareandlearning.org/donate/ Become a Friend of the Council!

Happy New Year!

Marsha Basloe