Offers a rationale for including advocacy training in early childhood preparation programs, suggesting that, among other topics, such courses cover the history of early childhood public policy, current issues in early childhood, the mechanisms of policy formation and government operations, and political involvement. (KS)

This book, which is addressed to early childhood educators, offers a call to action that focuses on the whys and hows of advocacy, and provides strategies for selecting issues, building support, and joining with other advocates. Chapter 1 discusses the need for early childhood advocates, contributions advocates can make to the decision-making…

Provides tips on writing legislators to ask for their support for federal legislation for child care. (BB)

This article discusses the promise of parents as advocates on behalf of family support and high-quality care for infants and toddlers. The authors note that parents organize around specific issues or immediate problems. Parent action grows from the bottom up--from community advocacy to national issues. Effective public policy promotes parent…

Presents a summary of the findings and recommendations outlined in the report of the National School Readiness Task Force. Discusses implications for advocates working to implement supportive policies for children and families in communities across the United States. (BB)