How to Get Universal Child Care: Toolkits for State Policy and Systems Change

In 2023, Vermont passed landmark legislation creating a near-universal system of child care. The law, known as Act 76, was the culmination of a decade-long campaign led by the advocacy group Let’s Grow Kids. New America recently published an in-depth case study of the campaign to win child care in Vermont.

Many other states and cities—including New Mexico and New York City—are now actively pursuing universal child care for their residents. To support these efforts, New America’s Better Life Lab and Let’s Grow Kids Action Network produced six toolkits for advocates, policymakers, and funders who want to launch a similar campaign to secure child care for all.

Browse the toolkits below. Each offers advice and practical resources on a specific element of the campaign—from lobbying and grassroots organizing to engaging philanthropists and the business community.