Tools that Sell WAGE$ - T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood National Center

Educating policymakers and funders about the issues facing the workforce and the solutions to address these issues is key to the ongoing success of WAGE$. If you are looking for ways to make the case to bring WAGE$ to your state, look no further. The information and tools below can help early childhood stakeholders make the case for licensing WAGE$ in their state.

What We Know About the Link between Compensation, Education and Stability for the Early Education Workforce

Before first grade, a child may spend more than 10,000 hours in child care
Research tells us that children enrolled in a good early care and education program in the first five years of life are most likely to be in a highly skilled job or in college at age 21
Ensuring quality early care and education for children today secures a viable workforce for the future and a strong American economy in the long run
The quality of early care and education a child receives is directly linked to teacher education and compensation
COVID-19 has illustrated that the early childhood workforce is essential for a robust economy; it is the workforce behind the workforce. Adequate compensation is necessary to rebuild and sustain this critical field

Child Care WAGE$® Provides Incentives

For educational attainment – awarding compensation increases as education increases
For reduced turnover leading to stability in classrooms – providing early educators with an affordable, attractive career

“I feel that this program has helped me provide a better environment for the children I care for. It is important for this program to stay in place so that I can better provide for my family. As a child care provider in my home, I cannot get a cost of living raise unless I raise my rates. With the state of our fragile economy, if I increase dues, parents would find some place cheaper for their children. Then I would have to close my business.”
Family Child Care Provider