DE HCR86

Designates May 9, 2018, as "Early Childhood Advocacy Day" in Delaware to recognize the importance of quality early learning for young children, families, employers, and the state's economic development.

Notes that Delaware has approximately 80,000 children from birth to age 8, with most brain growth occurring before age 5, and that one-third to two-thirds of students do not enter kindergarten with necessary skills for success.

Highlights that high-quality early learning produces approximately $10 in return for every $1 invested through reduced education, health, and crime costs.

Recognizes Delaware's progress in developmental screening, early learning provider quality ratings, Grade Level Literacy campaigns, home visiting efforts, and workforce development initiatives.

Calls for celebrating past accomplishments and recommitting to supporting Delaware's early childhood system as a shared responsibility benefiting children, families, communities, and workforce development.