Encouraged states to use tobacco settlement monies to fund programs. Tracey Ballas Co-founder of the National School Age Care Alliance, which started eight years ago to address the needs of the professionals in the field. Stressed need for standards, quality and accreditation of programs. Programs should balance care and education and meet the needs of the whole child. Policies need to blend the two and not set up barriers and conflicts.
Research shows that youth under competent, caring adults are happier and more resilient.
As we recognize the changing role of families, we must change the conversation among policy makers and state agencies to work collaboratively to meet the needs of working families. The system is fragmented and we need to decide where we want to go. Challenge Create programs that are meaningful, fun, safe, and rich with learning activities that prime kids for learning. We must do more to promote the message, identify stakeholders including business, schools, parents, police and community partners. The issue cuts across many disciplines.