September 3, 2020
Here’s a phone script adapted from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) to use when calling lawmakers to ask for their support in funding childcare.
Phone Script Greeting and Primary Request
“Hi, my name is [NAME], I’m a voting constituent. I first want to thank you for your efforts to pass emergency childcare measures. I’m calling to request that [REP/SENATOR] invest in childcare through immediate congressional funding.
Offer Background Information
“Quality childcare is a public good. It provides a safe learning environment for children so parents can get to work, get to school, and contribute to their community.
The House passed a bipartisan bill proposing $50 billion to stabilize the industry in July, and Senate Republicans proposed $15 billion for the child care industry. None of that matters if House and Senate leadership don’t prioritize childcare in any further recovery negotiations.
If Congress doesn’t act now, the U.S. stands to lose half of our childcare providers.
During the pandemic, many childcare providers and parents are worried about whether there will be childcare when the time comes to get back to work. Families deserve Congress’ support just like airlines and other industries.”
Ways to Adapt Your Phone Script
If you’d like to ask for a significant investment with a number attached, you can say:
Thank you for listening. I hope you’ll ask [REP/SENATOR] to prioritize at least $50 billion for childcare in the next recovery package.
If you got a negative response after introducing the topic, you can say:
I hope you reconsider. Your constituents need secure childcare options. Parents need access to quality childcare once they are able to return to the workplace.
If you received a neutral reaction or if you want to focus on asking for an investment without a number attached, you can say:
Thank you for listening. I hope to see [REP/SENATOR] help pass significant funding soon.
The Power of a Phone Call
We need to keep childcare top of mind while U.S. Senators and Representatives are home in Arizona and as they return to DC. Emails, Tweets and other social media messages are important, but even in this digital age, nothing replaces a person-to-person phone call.
Our legislators’ work is to represent the needs of constituents in their districts. So don’t hesitate to give them a call!
U.S. CAPITOL SWITCHBOARD: 202-224-3121
A switchboard operator will connect you directly with the office you request.
