Project Summary:
Early childhood education (ECE) is recognized by the World Health Organization (n.d), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2021), and Healthy People 2030 (2020) as a key social determinant of health. Quality ECE supports both child and family health. For children, nurturing early learning environments promotes cognitive and social development that lays the foundation for lifelong physical and mental health (Center on the Developing Child, 2010). For families, access to ECE allows parents, especially mothers, to remain in the workforce, supporting economic stability that directly impacts family health (Heckman, 2013). Research shows that economic stability reduces stress, improves access to healthcare, and enhances family nutrition, all of which contribute to healthier, more resilient families (Braveman et al., 2011).
ECE fosters health equity by providing foundational support that promotes positive social and health outcomes, particularly in historically under-resourced communities (Hahn & Barnett, 2023). ECE is a priority in Milwaukee, and focus groups conducted by Milwaukee Succeeds show that low enrollment, financial hardships, and professional development challenges are all leading providers to consider closing. With 50% of current providers having opened in the past five years, we want to identify ways to support their desire to remain open and ultimately provide high-quality care to our infants and toddlers.
This project proposes a three-tier approach to this health need:
- Qualitative research with child care providers to learn what supports/resources are needed to successfully run a child care business
- Predictive analytics of quantitative data made available by our partners to determine factors that predict closure
- Policy recommendations intended to support the sustainability of the child care sector, allowing for continuity of care, helping families stay in the workforce, increasing stability in neighborhoods, and supporting employment.
Community Partners: 4C for Children, Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, Wisconsin Early Childhood Association, Shine Early Learning, Premier, Inc.