The Think Babies Michigan Coalition (TBMI), Michigan Association for the Education of Young Children (Michigan AEYC), Mothering Justice and Michigan Head Start Association (MHSA) invite you to join the 2025 Early Childhood Capitol Day on Wednesday, March 12 at DoubleTree by Hilton: 111 N Grand Avenue, Lansing, MI with check-in starting at 8:30 a.m.
Last year through our collective advocacy, we were able to encourage lawmakers to increase Michigan’s child care scholarship reimbursement rates. But there is still more that must be done; until the state supports the actual cost of providing quality care, child care businesses will continue to face closure, and access to quality care will remain a challenge for too many families. Additionally, Michigan mothers continue to need greater access to health care to support the healthy development of babies.
The 2025 Early Childhood Capitol Day brings parents, early childhood professionals, advocates, and community members together to elevate their voices and promote change through advocacy and education. Participants will hear directly from state and community leaders supporting Michigan families with young children and get to meet directly with their own state representatives and senators.
Our message:
- Support legislation that prioritizes the health of mothers and babies; and
- Increase funding for early childhood education and higher, fair compensation for the early childhood workforce.
If you are interested in attending, we encourage you to register today as space is limited. Upon registration, you will receive additional information regarding opportunities to participate in a virtual advocacy training event prior to Capitol Day, an agenda, and other important materials.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Early Childhood Capitol Day 2025 is co-sponsored by Think Babies Michigan, Michigan AEYC, Michigan Head Start Association, and Mothering Justice.
FAQ & Recommendations
Q. Where in Lansing will we gather for the Early Childhood Capitol Day?
A. We will be holding our events for the day at the DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing Hotel – 111 N Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933
Q. Will there be a virtual component to Early Childhood Capitol Day?
A. Our workgroup is exploring potential opportunities for statewide engagement, understanding travel during the middle of the week can be difficult for early care and education professionals and families with young children. Please check back for updates around virtual touchpoints, however, if you are registering please plan to be in Lansing for the entire day.
Q. Will food be provided?
A. Yes, there will be a light breakfast and lunch provided. Please indicate any dietary restrictions on the registration form. We also encourage you to bring a water bottle.
Q. What should I pack with me?
A. Don’t forget an umbrella in case it rains, a water bottle, and business cards if you have them.
Q. Do I need to schedule the meeting with my legislator(s) in the afternoon?
A. No, we will schedule all legislative meetings for you.
Q. Is there a cost to participate in Early Childhood Capitol Day?
A. No, there is no cost to register or participate in Early Childhood Capitol Day.
Q. Can I bring my child(ren)?
A. Our workgroup is exploring potential opportunities for supporting families with young children. At this time, this event lacks developmentally appropriate activities or space for children. For that reason and due to limitations in capacity we ask young children not to attend.
Q. What about travel and parking?
A. There are numerous parking ramps and lots available within a few blocks of Central United Methodist Church. For specific information on parking, check out these tools: Lansing Capitol Complex Map and Downtown Lansing Parking Map. Parking structures cost $3 per hour on average with $15 maximum.
Q. What should I wear?
A. We encourage everyone to wear business casual attire.
Examples of business casual attire include pencil skirts, slacks, khakis, trousers, blouses, collared shirts, button-down shirts, sport coats, blazers and sweaters. There will be a lot of walking on Early Childhood Capitol Day, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Shoes can include flats, lifestyle sneakers (with leather or canvas), Oxfords, loafers, mules, or boots.
Q. Will I earn MiRegistry Training Hours/SCECHs for attending this event?
A. Yes, three MiRegistry Training Hours/SCECHs are available to those who qualify.
Q. How do I find out who my State Representative is?
A. Look up your State Representative using your address here.
Q. How do I find out who my State Senator is?
A. Look up your State Senator using your address here.
Think Babies is staffed by the Early Childhood Investment Corporation.