In early February, the Library of Virginia transformed into a place of wonder and excitement as families, educators, advocates, and policymakers gathered for our Playdate at the Capitol. It was a morning filled with laughter, learning, and an undeniable sense of hope for the future of early care and education in Virginia. 

A Moment of Magic 
One of the most unforgettable moments of the day was watching children’s faces light up with pure joy as they stepped into the space and were greeted by Cinderella and Belle from Magic and Merriment. For a moment, the realities of legislative advocacy faded into the background, and we were reminded of something so simple yet profound: the wonder of childhood. 
Children see the world with fresh eyes, full of curiosity, imagination, and boundless possibility. They remind us to approach our work with their perspective in mind, ensuring that every policy, investment, and decision we make supports their ability to thrive. 

For the dedicated early childhood educators across Virginia, creating these magical moments isn’t just a one-time event—it’s their daily work. Every day, in classrooms and child care centers across the commonwealth, these educators shape young minds, nurture curiosity, and provide children with the foundational skills they need for lifelong success. 

The Backbone of Early Care and Education: Our Child Care Providers 
While Monday’s event was filled with celebration, it was also a call to recognize and support the professionals who make early learning possible. Early childhood educators play a critical role in preparing young children for kindergarten and beyond, yet they are among the lowest-paid professionals in Virginia. 

The data is stark: 
– The median wage for early childhood educators in Virginia is just $12.56 per hour, often without benefits. 
– Nearly half of child care educators qualify for some form of public assistance to support their own families. 
– Virginia has over 10,000 children on waitlists for child care assistance, largely because there are not enough providers to meet demand. 

These statistics highlight a deep injustice—the very people we entrust with the most critical years of child development are struggling to make ends meet. Investing in early care and education isn’t just about expanding access for families; it’s about ensuring educators are paid a livable wage so they can continue their essential work. 

A Morning of Advocacy and Play 
Throughout the morning, children engaged in hands-on activities provided by incredible partners like Bella Ballerina, Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center, Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, Children’s Museum of Richmond, Science Museum of Virginia, Magic and Merriment, Virginia Promise Partnership, YWCA Sprout School, SCAN Circle Preschool, SCAN, ChildSavers, VA Early Learning Partners, Thrive Birth to 5, and Friends Association. From dance performances and sensory play to science experiments and art activities, every experience reinforced the power of early learning. 

Commitment from Our Leaders 
We were honored to welcome Delegate McClure, who spoke about the historic investments made in Virginia’s early care and education system last year and the work still ahead. Several other legislators and their staff dropped by to show their commitment to ensuring that Virginia continues to invest in young children and their families. Their support underscores that access to quality early care and education is not a privilege—it’s a necessity for working families, for economic growth, and for the future of Virginia. 

With over 10,000 children on waitlists for child care assistance, we need continued state investment to ensure that every child, regardless of zip code or income, has access to high-quality early education. A $160 million investment in Virginia’s early care and childhood system would eliminate child care waitlists and help build the supply of child care options, allowing more families to work and contribute to Virginia’s economy. 

Why This Matters to Me as a Mom 
This event wasn’t just about advocacy for me—it was deeply personal. As a mother, I know firsthand how crucial early care and education is. I remember the search for quality child care, the worry about whether my child was in the right place, and the relief that comes from knowing they are in a nurturing and enriching environment. Every family deserves that peace of mind, and every child deserves the best possible start in life. 

Seeing my own children at the Playdate at the Capitol, playing, exploring, and interacting with educators and policymakers, was a powerful reminder of why I do this work. These experiences shape them. They teach them that their voices matter, that their learning matters, and that the adults in their lives—including lawmakers—are working to ensure they have a bright and supported future. I am well known in the General Assembly building for sharing that I have spent over $100,000 on child care in the past seven years—a reality many families are reeling with.  

Moving Forward Together 
The Playdate at the Capitol was a reminder of what’s possible when we come together—families, educators, and policymakers—to prioritize the needs of young children. The joy we witnessed on Monday should be the norm for all children, not the exception. 

If you were inspired by this event, here’s how you can take action: 
– Contact your legislators to advocate for increased early care and education investments. 
– Support early childhood educators by raising awareness about their wages and the need for better funding. 
– Stay connected with Voices for Virginia’s Children for updates and opportunities to get involved. 

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