The Connecticut Early Childhood Alliance is disappointed that the bill to create an Office of Early Childhood was never called for a vote, given the leadership of the governor, broad bi-partisan support in the legislature, and overwhelming support of parents and the early childhood community. We’re concerned about the uncertainty the failure to enact this bill creates. We remain committed to the establishment of a comprehensive, coordinated early childhood system that works for children and families.
I’ve worked in early childhood education for more than 30 years. I know that when children get the nurturing and support needed from the very start, they thrive and are more likely to succeed in school and in life. This is why Connecticut should create an Office of Early Childhood, and Congress should enact President Obama’s early childhood proposal.
Caleb Cantres-Maldonado was all of 6 weeks old and just stirring from a nap when his mother propped him up and pointed him in the direction of a picture book.
“Look what I have! See the book?” said Milenka St. Clair, a family support worker who visits Caleb’s Manassas home once a week. “It’s a drum! What else do you see?”
Caleb’s head flopped to one side. St. Clair tapped the page loudly, then moved it left and right and up and down. The baby’s eyes, still cloudy and a little crossed, followed her movements.