Home/Our Work/Policy Center/Federal Policy

Federal Policy

National policies affect every aspect of families' lives and can promote equity across states to ensure all infant and toddlers have the best opportunity to thrive.
Learn about our federal policy agenda

What We Do

Congress and the Administration could do more to improve our systems for supporting the health and well-being of young children and families.

The ZERO TO THREE federal policy team works to influence decisions made at the national level and offers resources that identify policy opportunities to bolster the supports available to this country’s youngest children and their families, and to lay a strong foundation for our future. 

 
Stay InformED and Engaged

ZERO TO THREE’s Early Childhood Policy Priorities

We advocate for policies that ensure all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. Our priorities focus on three key areas:

  • Good Health: Ensuring wraparound care for families and young children that addresses both physical and mental health needs. This includes expanding access to pediatric and perinatal mental health services and integrating early childhood developmental supports into healthcare.
  • Strong Families: Supporting parents with programs that create safe, stable, and nurturing environments. Policies that improve family economic security, such as paid family leave and strengthened child tax credits, help lay a solid foundation for early development.
  • Positive Early Learning Opportunities: Increasing access to high-quality, affordable child care while ensuring early childhood educators receive fair compensation. Strengthening early learning programs helps babies and toddlers reach their full potential.
state of babies yearbook

Related Resources

View All Resources
Teacher and toddler playing with maths puzzle game sitting on table at kindergarten
Resource

How the Department of Education Supports Babies and Toddlers

Proper nutrition during early childhood lays the foundation for lifelong health, but cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could put many babies at risk.
Details
Open Letter

A Future Built for Babies: Why I’m Joining ZERO TO THREE

ZERO TO THREE's new Chief Policy Officer Melissa Boteach reflects on her career path and why she's driven to make babies a national priority.
Details
Virtual Event

Special Briefing: What Federal Actions and Proposed Budget Cuts Mean for Babies and Families

Details

Be a Big Voice for Little Kids

Bring attention to what babies and their families need to thrive.

Take Action