Leaders in New Jersey’s early childhood education sector recently converged on the State House. Specifically, they attended the May 6, 2026, ECEA Advocacy Day. Ultimately, they launched a high-stakes day of action. Their goal was to address pressing challenges facing community-based child care providers and working families.
Members of the Early Childhood Education Advocates (ECEA) joined forces with representatives from the Early Care and Education Consortium (ECEC). Together, they met directly with state lawmakers, including Assemblywoman Carol Murphy. During these meetings, the discussions centered on securing sustainable support for the state’s child care infrastructure. Thus, they worked to bridge the gap between independent center owners and state policymakers.
A Collective Stand for Providers and Families
The coalition emphasized the vital role community child care programs play in New Jersey’s economy. In addition to meeting with legislators, advocates delivered public testimony before the New Jersey State Board of Education. Through this testimony, they highlighted the operational hurdles and financial pressures currently impacting providers across the state.
Industry advocates noted that strong advocacy efforts over the past year yielded critical wins. For instance, these wins included the restoration of Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding. Furthermore, they celebrated the passage of the New Jersey Universal Preschool and Kindergarten Act, which established mixed-delivery partnerships and multi-year contracting options. However, participants stressed that continued vigilance remains essential as the state navigates new legislative priorities.
Looking Ahead
New Jersey is currently shaping the future of early education through ongoing policy discussions. Consequently, organizations like ECEA continue to call on center owners, educators, and community stakeholders to remain engaged.
For more information on upcoming initiatives or to get involved with future advocacy events, visit the Early Childhood Education Advocates website or contact their Trenton office.
About Early Childhood Education Advocates (ECEA)
Formed as a dedicated non-profit entity, the Early Childhood Education Advocates (ECEA) serves as a powerful coalition and leading voice within New Jersey for community-based child care providers, early educators, and working families. The organization is driven by industry leaders committed to promoting smart, sustainable policies that strengthen the state’s early care and education infrastructure.
Participation in the ECEA is open to child care center owners, directors, and advocates who strive to ensure providers have a seat at the table in Trenton. Members engage directly with state lawmakers, participate in advocacy days at the NJ State House, and champion policies—such as equitable Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding, multi-year contracting stability, and strong mixed-delivery preschool partnerships—to improve early learning opportunities across the Garden State.
Child care providers, educators, and families serve as a vital resource for the ECEA network. For more information about the organization and to get involved or become a member, visit eceadvocates.com.