2014 has arrived and we couldn’t be more excited! Early childhood education (like preschool and child care) is a hot topic in Washington state enjoying broad support and leadership from the Governor, both houses of the state legislature, and for the state agencies that serve children and families.

We love seeing early care and education as a top priority for leaders, but we also want to make sure that translates into real action and change for Washington families.

Here is what action we want to see in 2014 for Washington families:

• Increased investment in early care and education to ensure more families have access to high quality care for our littlest learners.
• Supports to providers for increasing quality for child care for all families in need of care.
• Increased access to affordable, high quality child care so that getting care for our little ones no longer breaks the bank!

We also asked some of our organizational friends in Washington what their hopes and dreams are for early childhood education in Washington state. Here’s a taste of what they had to say:

“Too many Washington children don’t get the strong start they need to succeed in school and in life. Legislators this year should expand early learning programs, ensure no child in Washington goes hungry, and put more resources into closing the opportunity gap.” - Jon Gould, Deputy Director, Children’s Alliance

“My hope for kids this session is that the state continues its momentum in building a world-class early childhood education system. Education, and the state’s paramount duty to provide it, should not start at kindergarten.” - Ryan Pricco, Child Care Aware of Washington

“In the coming years, we hope the policymakers associate success in school to not only quality early childhood education but to having vital basic services, like nutritious food and stable housing.” - United Way of King County

What do YOU want to see happen in 2014 in Washington State? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Together we can have a big impact on what happens in our state!