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One two-generational approach to upward mobility is connecting child care programs to work support programs for parents. This allows parents to work toward support their family while their children can develop in a supportive environment. Access to high quality child care is critical aspect of this strategy.  

Last March, the Senate passed the reauthorization of the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014. In late September, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill under a special rule. The bipartisan bill would allow children to have more sustained access to child care and improve parents’ or guardians’ ability to work and advance in their jobs. The bill includes several provisions to support low-income, working families including:

• Requiring that every child receiving CCDBG be eligible for 12 months regardless of changes in parent’s income or work status
• Child care workforce training on best practices to meet the developmental needs of children
• Preventing the use of child assessment for inappropriate high stakes

Informing parents to better understand quality choices in their community as well as access to developmental screening

• Grouping funds to streamline overlapping early childhood programs

 Policymakers should consider ways to support working families through two-generational approaches.  Strengthening services and supports the meet the needs of both children and their caregivers is an important step toward improving family well-being. This includes investing in child and family programs and services that reduce risks and strengthen protective factors.

To learn more about ways to support working families read our report on reducing child poverty. To learn more about protective factors that ensure families can thrive – check out our protective factors framework.