Kansas providers, advocates, and families are invited to Early Learning Advocacy Day in Topeka on
Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.!
This day is dedicated to forming relationships with lawmakers and sharing first-hand stories about Kansas’ child care and early learning system.
Advanced registration is required. Due to space constraints, registration is strictly limited to 150 participants.
Advocacy Day begins at the Kansas Health Institute to learn about advocating and telling your story. Later in the Statehouse, you can meet with your lawmaker, connect with early learning advocates, and have lunch with other professionals!
Program and Advocacy Day Check-in is at:
Kansas Heath Institute
212 SW 8th Avenue, #300
Topeka, KS 66603
Program Descriptions:
You Belong Here – Elevate Your Voice
Advocating can be intimidating and overwhelming. Learn how to craft your story and share it with your lawmakers. This learning opportunity is your first step in forming an ongoing relationship with Kansas policymakers. (This program does not qualify for KDHE training hours.)
Reading in the Rotunda
Connect with your lawmaker while they read to the children in your care. This activity is a more relaxed way to interact with others in the Statehouse.
Lawmaker Visits
Schedule a visit with your lawmakers. This may happen at a time that is convenient for you during the day. This opportunity is yours to plan, but the event planners are happy to answer questions; meeting advice will be provided in advance.
House and Senate Chamber Proceedings
You may take an opportunity to watch the House of Representatives and Senate chambers’ proceedings in the galleries on the 4th floor. The House of Representatives meets at 11:00 a.m. in the west wing. The Senate meets at 2:30 p.m. in the east wing. Food and drink are not allowed in the gallery. Visitors cannot take pictures of the voting board in the House chamber.
Early Learning Caucus
During the lunch hour, lawmakers will meet to learn about early childhood. This event’s topic is “Innovative Business Solutions.” Representatives from KDHE, Child Care Aware, and Kansas Child Care Training Opportunities, along with members of the child care workforce, will describe innovative solutions being used in child care environments around the state. The meeting is open to the public in room 118-N at 12:00 p.m.; however, space will be limited and is on a first come, first serve basis. The meeting will also be recorded.
Lawmaker Debrief
After spending the day learning together and advocating in the Statehouse, come share your experiences about the day! Join other participants and advocates for a chance to touch base about what you’ve learned and who you met with so that you can take your next steps in advocating for child care and early learning.
Capitol Building Tours
You may schedule a tour through the Kansas Visitor’s Center for a guided tour around the Capitol Building. You will learn about the history, architecture, and more during this tour. This event is not facilitated or planned by the Advocacy Day planning committee. Learn more about Capitol Tours>> https://www.kshs.org/p/kansas-state-capitol-plan-your-visit/18649