EARLY EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN & CHILD CARE CHOICES FOR WORKING PARENTS:
North Carolina has one of the highest rates of working parents with young children. 44% of the state’s families live in a child care desert where there are more than three times as many children compared to child care slots. Subsidized childcare reimbursement rates create greater equity in funding across the state for both child care centers and family child care homes, particularly in rural communities.
RECOMMENDATION: Provide funding to extend the compensation components of the Child Care Stabilization Grants. Implement a statewide rate floor for families to access child care close to home and support local businesses.
PREVENT YOUTH SUICIDE & ADDRESS THE CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS:
Suicide is the leading cause of death for youth ages 10-14 in North Carolina. It is crucial that trained professionals can support our children when they are in crisis.
RECOMMENDATION: Strengthen suicide prevention education for teachers to recognize and respond to warning signs and risk factors of youth suicide.
PROMOTE HEALTH THROUGH THE REACH OUT AND READ PROGRAM
According to the most recent data from NC DHHS, 39% of fourth-grade students in North Carolina are at a “below-basic” level in literacy. Increased exposure to reading has significant cognitive, emotional, and social benefits for children, resulting in a profound positive impact on our communities and society.
RECOMMENDATION: Secure recurring funding for the Reach Out and Read program.
NC Child advocates for Preventing Child Deaths alongside the Child Fatality Task Force.
ABOUT NC CHILD:
Founded in 2014, NC Child is a nonpartisan organization that advocates for policies that improve the lives of all NC children. Each year, we work diligently to present the legislature with evidence-based, community-informed policy proposals.
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