Child care is a pressing issue in New Jersey, impacting not only families with young children but the broader community and economy. Winifred Smith-Jenkins, Director of Early Childhood Policy and Advocacy, emphasizes that "every child deserves a strong start in life" and parents should have the assurance that their children are cared for in safe environments while they work or study.
New Jersey faces significant economic challenges due to inadequate child care. The state reportedly loses $3.6 billion annually from lost earnings, productivity, and tax revenue linked to child care issues (ReadyNation, 2023). This lack of reliable child care affects businesses through absenteeism and workforce instability, placing additional burdens on social welfare systems when parents cannot work.
Families in New Jersey require expanded access to affordable, high-quality child care. Smith-Jenkins advocates for investment in the child care workforce to ensure providers remain operational and staffed. She calls for support of family choice in selecting between various types of care options like state-funded preschool programs, Head Start initiatives, licensed child care centers, family-based home care, and summer youth camps.
The significance of accessible child care extends beyond immediate familial benefits. For children, it fosters early brain development and prepares them for future success. Parents gain support to participate in the workforce or pursue education while reducing stress levels. Grandparents assisting with childcare can focus on personal goals as well.
Employers benefit from improved employee retention and productivity by reducing absenteeism caused by childcare issues. The broader community stands to gain from reduced costs related to education and social services while fostering an inclusive economy where all children can thrive.
Public investment is crucial at this juncture as many centers operate below capacity due to funding shortfalls and workforce shortages. Without such investment, New Jersey's economy will continue suffering losses tied directly to inaccessible child care.
Smith-Jenkins encourages voters to engage with candidates about their plans for expanding affordable quality childcare access during elections. By sharing personal stories using #NJVotes4Kids on social media platforms or supporting public funding initiatives related directly towards improving these services statewide ensures children's issues become priorities within political discourse moving forward.
For assistance finding childcare or applying for financial aid visit www.ChildCareNJ.gov or contact 1-800-332-9227.
