for support
The Washington Communities for Children advocates for system and policies that support children and families. We hold the following principles as core to our policy agenda.
INVEST EARLY
A child’s experiences in the first years of life are the bricks and mortar of brain development. The brain develops faster from birth to age three than at any later period, building the foundation for all future learning, behavior, and health.
SUPPORT FAMILIES
Those in parenting positions are a child’s most important teacher and play a critical role in their child’s healthy development. All families with young children — especially first-time parents, those with all adults in the labor force, and those without extended family nearby— are stretched for time and resources.
ENGAGE COMMUNITIES
Communities and governments can provide families with support they may need at an especially critical and stressful time. By working together, we can build systems that foster resilience and hope.