It’s been seven days since baby John died at an unregulated child care program in Fort Worth.
Seven days.
Seven days of hurt for a family and a community, for something that could be prevented.
Over the last seven days, I’ve thought back to the many times we have responded as an organization each time we hear this kind of story; seek out licensed child care, accreditation programs may be higher quality, here’s a list of how to spot red flags—and quality. Ultimately—this issue is largely one of economics. John’s mother, who is now urging other families to use licensed child care centers, is not to blame in his death. The cost for quality care is astronomical – more than a large majority of families can afford (because as we know, quality child care can cost as much as, or more, than college tuition).
As a community, we have got to take the political and personal risks required to do something big, and real, and sustainable for the children and families who are our neighbors, co-workers and beyond.
This means learning from other communities and adopting for our own community things that work – like using tax dollars to subsidize the cost of child care and early learning – just like we do for children once they enter the public school system (including our colleges and universities). Why we continue to underestimate how crucial care is from ages 0-3, I just don’t understand. It is mind-blowing, frustrating, and flat out painful! Let’s not forget, 85% of your brain is developed by age THREE.
Eighty-five percent of your mind’s connections are developed before you even understand what brain connections are.
You, today as a community can take the first step to action and support. Learn more by attending an overview of a recent study done on the cost of quality childcare in the DFW area, led by the Tarrant County Workforce Solutions. This presentation is supported by many community organizations including Child Care Licensing, Child Care Group, Child Care Associates, AVANCE, and Camp Fire. The overview is being held on August 30 from 9:00-10:30 at Lena Pope as a part of the Texas Workforce Commission BOD meeting, which is open to the public.
So, what is the cost of child care? Too much. But what we know for sure is, it should not cost a child their life.
Seven days.
What will you do to help make a difference?
Lyn Lucas is the Chief Program Officer at Camp Fire First Texas. Lyn brings more than 20 years of experience working with children and youth. Her specialties include working with children in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, managing school-age programs and NAEYC-accredited early childhood education programs. She has served as a Program Director, Child Development Coordinator, Child Care Center Director, Regional Director, a Master Registered Trainer in early care and education and has taught numerous classes and workshops throughout North Texas. Lyn holds a Master of Education in curriculum studies and serves on the Texas Youth and Child Care Worker Association board.
