📣 April News Roundup: Connecticut Is at a Crossroads on Child Care

💬 “We’re not asking for a favor. We’re demanding a future.”

— Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman

April brought big headlines — and even bigger questions — about the future of early childhood care in Connecticut. From statewide policy shifts to federal uncertainty, the child care conversation is everywhere. And our message is clear: families and providers can’t wait.

Below is your monthly roundup of the most important stories, editorials, and actions shaping Connecticut’s child care landscape — with powerful insights from Child Care for CT’s own leaders and advocates.

🧒 “We are building the kind of child care system that puts families first.”

“We’re finally at the point where people see this for what it is: a public good. Not a luxury. Not a private problem. But something that benefits every single one of us.”

— Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman, Child Care for CT

Gov. Ned Lamont is holding firm on a bold $300 million universal preschool proposal, even as budget uncertainty looms. CT Mirror reports the plan would expand access and affordability for thousands of families, and state officials are echoing the need for long-term investment. Meanwhile, the Appropriations Committee’s proposed $55.6 billion budget includes major child care investments, showing that pressure from advocates is making a difference.

💬 “We need a state system strong enough to stand, even if federal support falters.”

The recent closure of the New England Head Start office sent shockwaves across the region. Though no immediate cuts have taken effect, federal funding for essential early childhood programs is in jeopardy — and many families are already feeling the impact.

“If we’re serious about making child care reliable, we need to prepare for a future where Connecticut leads — not just follows federal timelines.”

— Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman

That means building a resilient, state-funded infrastructure that can weather uncertainty and prioritize stability for providers and families alike.

📣 Communities Are Speaking. Lawmakers Are Listening.

In Branford, Norwalk, and Hartford, community leaders and legislators held listening sessions and roundtables on what’s working — and what’s not. These events made one thing clear: the child care crisis is real, and the solutions must be bold.

New zoning proposals in Stamford, expanded subsidy programs, and renewed focus on workforce retention are all on the table. But advocates say it’s time to go further.

“We need guaranteed funding. We need better pay. And we need to stop pretending these are radical ideas — they’re common sense.”

— Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman

📊 The Data Speaks — So Should We

A new report from United Way shows a 6% increase in available child care slots — thanks to targeted state funding. But parents are still unable to access those slots and severe staffing shortages persist, underscoring the urgent need for improved wages, training, and professional pathways for early educators.

“It’s simple: if we want quality care, we have to treat caregivers like professionals — not afterthoughts.”

— Eva Bermúdez Zimmerman

🌍 Across the Country, Real Change Is Possible

New Mexico recently became the first state to make child care free for most families — and in doing so, lifted more than 120,000 people out of poverty. It’s proof that when government steps up, families rise.

Connecticut has the chance to lead, too — and all eyes are on us.

🚨 Don’t Miss This: Morning Without Child Care is May 14

This statewide day of action will bring parents, providers, and advocates together to show what life looks like without accessible, affordable care. It’s a moment to be seen. To be heard. To make this crisis visible — and push for lasting solutions.

👣 Take the Next Step

✅ Follow the conversation on Instagram

✅ Join us May 14 for Morning Without Child Care

✅ Tell your legislators: Connecticut can’t wait