Week of the Young Child is a national celebration of early learning, young children, their teachers, families and communities. This year it takes place April 5 through April 12.

Media Opportunity — Carol Austin, Executive Director of First Up, recognizes 60 local Chambers of Commerce for recognizing importance of quality childcare and how it impacts on businesses. First Up is the organization that has supported early childhood education professionals, organizations, and families over 50 years and is the Greater Philadelphia region’s most trusted partner and advocate for high-quality early childhood education. The name First Up asserts that those first relationships that children develop are crucial in creating a path forward to success.

Carol Austin said, “As we celebrate the Week of the Young Child, it is striking how much support is needed for those who care for our young children. Inadequate childcare imposes significant direct burdens on the workforce. Plus, there have been consequences for working mothers.

• 1-in-4 working mothers report having pay or hours reduced by an employer;
• One-third of working mothers report losing/quitting a job;
• Over half say their career opportunities have been lessened due to inadequate childcare.

First Up, along with statewide partners and 60 plus local Chambers have been calling for higher investment in the childcare sector. Our friends in these Chambers of Commerce recognize that without high quality childcare, families cannot work, causing their memberships extreme stress.

Laura Manion, President and CEO of Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry said, “As a working mom of two young boys, and the President of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry, I have experienced firsthand that access to quality, affordable childcare is an economic imperative. Pennsylvania loses billions each year due to a lack of childcare investment, impacting businesses, workforce participation, and overall economic growth. Supporting childcare is supporting our economy, our businesses, and our working families.”