For a child, the first five years last forever.
the Federal Shutdown has ended. What comes next?
The longest federal shutdown in United States history ended with Congress passing a spending package to fund the government through January 30. In the days ahead, Congress must act quickly to provide increased stability for families by passing a spending bill that funds child care and early learning programs through Fiscal Year 2026.
POLLING: Rural Voters on Child Care and Head Start
Rural Parents have been hit particularly hard by child care challenges, with a significant number saying they’re having trouble finding work, are cutting back on basic necessities, and are putting off growing their families due to a lack of affordable options that meet their family’s needs. In a new poll from First Five Years Fund, Rural Americans say money is tight, and child care is a significant part of that burden.
Child Care and Early Learning State Fact Sheets
FFYF’s State Fact Sheets from 50 states and Washington, D.C. show how federal investments in child care support working parents, children, and the economy. Federal funding and programs benefit families nationwide and serve as the foundation for America’s child care and early learning system.
Latest News
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STATEMENT: FFYF on the End of the Federal Shutdown and What Comes Next
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The longest federal shutdown in United States history ended last night, with Congress passing a spending package to fund the government through January 30. The following is …
STATE OF PLAY: Federal Shutdown and Child Care/Early Learning Programs
UPDATE: 11/10/25 After 43 days, the federal shutdown has officially ended. In the days ahead, we urge Congress to act quickly to provide increased stability for families by passing a …
Shutdown 2025: Impact On Head Start Programs
UPDATE: 11/13/25 After 43 days, the federal shutdown has officially ended. In the days ahead, we urge Congress to act quickly to provide increased stability for families by passing a …
