California Must
About Choose Children 2026
Choose Children 2026 is guided by a diverse California network of over three dozen child advocates and service organizations committed to creating a thriving future for California children and families.
We work to ensure that candidates for California Governor take action and support investment and approaches that advance the well-being, care, and learning of young children, their families, and the essential workers who care for them.
The initiative is co-led by a steering committee of First 5 Association of California, The Children’s Partnership, Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and LA Partnership for Early Childhood Investment.
The State of Childhood in California
of California children live in poverty.
Child care is twice the cost of attending public college.
of babies miss key well-child visits.
of early educators earn below a living wage.
California has the 4th largest economy in the world, yet our children’s health and well-being do not match our economic output.
Our kids need us – and we have a responsibility to ensure that young children begin their lives healthy, safe, and ready to succeed in school and life. And, we need our kids even more. The economic vibrancy of our state relies on making it a place where families with young children can live and thrive.
Navigation
Families can easily find support in their language and culture.
Economic Security
Families have the financial
resources to help their children thrive.
Birth Justice
Families receive quality, culturally responsive care before, during, and after birth.
Early Learning
Families have affordable, quality childcare and education from birth to age 5.
Health Care
Every child and family has
affordable, quality health care.
Governance
California invests in strong
infrastructure that puts families first.
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