In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we sit down with Elliot Haspel, a nationally recognized child and family policy expert and author of Crawling Behind: America's Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It and Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Why Every American Has a Stake in Childcare for All. Together, we explore why universal childcare is not just a family issue but a societal one, rooted in brain science, economic sustainability, and the moral imperative to support children and caregivers. Elliot shares actionable insights on how policymakers, educators, and community leaders can create a mixed-delivery childcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education, equity, and the well-being of families. Tune in to learn how we can collectively reimagine childcare as a public right.

Outline

• (00:12) Introduction: Early Childhood Education and Personal Background
• (04:46) Defining Caregivers and the Importance of Early Years
• (11:11) Why Childcare Matters for Everyone
• (18:32) Hope and Progress in Childcare Policy
• (27:25) Building Public Will and Expanding the Constituency
• (38:17) Integrating Childcare into Society and Development
• (43:01) Childcare as a Right: Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Links

• Watch the full video here
• Read the full blog here
• LinkedIn
• Elliot Haspel Website
• Substack