Early Childhood Advocacy Day

Advocacy: building support for a topic or issue. Advocacy allows you to use your voice and share your story on how an issue, policy or decision has or may impact your life or the lives of those you love. Each year, legislators make important decisions at local, state and federal levels that have real impacts, and you should feel empowered to contact your legislators to help them understand what their decisions mean for communities. For example, crafting a state budget is one of the most important things legislators do. Your advocacy can ensure they consider and priorities early childhood priorities in their decision-making. 

As we gear up to gather in Springfield to advocate for early learning and care in Illinois, we’re pleased to present tools & resources to help you get ready! Our partners at Illinois Action for Children have designed an Advocacy Training that will provide you with an understanding of state-level advocacy, budget, and the legislative process in Illinois. The date for this training will be confirmed by March 2026.

Whether you join us in person on May 13 or prefer to participate virtually, we’re excited to have your support! Virtual advocacy opportunities will be shared in February 2026.

Is your community group interested in hosting a dialogue with your state legislators about the  importance of early learning and care? Or do you have questions on the legislative session or the resources offered? Contact us at Advocacy@StartEarly.org and follow us on Twitter/X @EarlyEdIL.

Advocates will go through metal detectors before entering any of the buildings in the Capitol Complex. In order to avoid going through security multiple times, there is a tunnel system to go between the Capitol, Stratton and Howlett buildings without going back outside. Volunteers will be stationed in the basement to help direct you to those buildings through the tunnels. Capitol police will be present while advocates go through security, however there is no requirement to show identification to enter the Capitol or other complex buildings.

Materials for Advocates

Capitol Maps & Directories

• What to Expect at the Capitol
• Agenda
• Key Committees
• Lawmaker Information Sheet
• Capitol Complex Map
• Senate Member List
• IL State House Directory

Talking Points & Fact Sheets

• Talking Points for Advocates
• Budget Fact Sheet
• ECACE Fact Sheet
• Early Intervention Fact Sheet
• Child Care Licensing Fact Sheet

Complimentary Shuttle Service  

Start Early and organizing partners offer complimentary transportation for Early Childhood Advocacy Day to and from Chicago. Participants can sign up for shuttles when completing registration for the event.

Participants planning to take these shuttles will receive an email with further details by May 8. For questions, contact Events@StartEarly.org. 

Plan for Comfort

• Comfortable Clothing & Shoes: Make sure your child wears comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, as there will be plenty of walking.  

• Layers: Weather can change throughout the day, so dress in layers. Pack an extra jacket or sweater in case it gets cold, or a hat and sunscreen for sunny weather. 

Keep Them Entertained

• Car Entertainment: Long car rides can get boring for kids. Bring books, coloring supplies, travel games, or electronic devices (with headphones) loaded with their favorite shows or apps. Audiobooks are also a great option for keeping them engaged during long drives. 

• Snacks & Drinks: Pack a variety of easy-to-eat snacks like granola bars, fruit, crackers, or pre-cut veggies. Don’t forget water bottles! Avoid overly sugary or messy snacks that might cause energy crashes or spills.  

• Rest Breaks: For longer car rides, plan for rest breaks every 1.5 to 2 hours so the kids can stretch, use the bathroom, and burn off some energy. 

Be Prepared for the Event Itself

• Know the Schedule: Look over the agenda in advance so you know when there will be breaks or downtime for your child. This way, you can plan activities or snack times accordingly. 

• Bring a Stroller or Carrier (if needed): For younger children, consider bringing a lightweight stroller or a child carrier. It’s helpful for rest breaks and when you need to navigate crowded areas or long distances. 

• Pack a Bag with Essentials: 

• • Diapers, wipes, and changing supplies (if applicable) 

• • Extra clothes for spills or accidents 

• • Sunscreen and hat for outdoor events 

• • Portable phone charger to keep your devices powered 

• • Wet wipes or hand sanitizer for quick clean-ups 

• • A first-aid kit with bandaids, any necessary medications, and basic remedies 

• • Ear Protection: ear protection such as noise-canceling headphones or earplugs can help protect their ears and keep them comfortable. 

Manage Expectations and Take Breaks

• Shorter Expectations for Their Attention Span: Kids, especially younger ones, have a shorter attention span. Have a plan for downtime or a place where you can retreat for a break if needed. 

• Find a Quiet Spot: If the event gets overwhelming or too loud, look for a quiet area where your child can decompress for a few minutes. 

• Rest Periods: Take breaks to let them stretch their legs and avoid becoming too fatigued. 

Hydration and Nutrition

• Stay Hydrated: Bring a refillable water bottle for everyone. Dehydration can lead to irritability and fatigue. 

• Frequent Snacks: Eating smaller snacks throughout the day can help maintain their energy levels. Try snacks that provide protein and fiber, such as nuts, fruit, or yogurt. Avoid snacks that are too salty or sugary, which can lead to energy dips or thirst. 

Safety First

• Parents/Caregivers that travel to the event with children utilizing the event-organized shuttle service must adhere to all designated age, weight, and height regulations for child safety. Safety Seat Guidelines – Illinois Secretary of State. Please bring car seats for your children. 

• ID and Contact Information: Be sure to check your child into the event at registration located at the Illinois State Library.  

• Teach Them What to Do If They Get Lost: Before the event, explain what to do if they get separated from you (find a uniformed person or a specific meeting point). Consider setting up a designated “meeting spot” in case you need to regroup. 

Plan for Flexibility

• Be Prepared to Leave Early: Sometimes, kids get overwhelmed or tired before the event is over. It’s okay to leave early if needed. Make sure you have a flexible plan so you’re not stressed about sticking to the event’s full schedule. 

• Check for Family-Friendly Facilities: If you’ll need to use a bathroom, look for family or accessible bathrooms, especially if your kids are younger or if you have multiple children. 

Prepare for the Post-Event

• Wind-Down Time: After a long event, kids (and parents!) can be overstimulated. Prepare for a quiet time after the event to let your child unwind before the drive back. This could be as simple as listening to calm music or reading a book during the car ride home. 

• Dinner and Rest: If the event ends late, consider packing a simple dinner or snack for the drive back. Also, aim to get them to bed earlier that night since a long day can be tiring for children. 

Positive Attitude

• Be Patient: Full-day events can be overwhelming for children, and they might get tired or cranky. Try to stay positive and flexible, and remember that it’s okay to take a break or step back if things aren’t going smoothly. 

• Involve Them in Planning: If possible, get your child excited about the event beforehand. Ask them what they are most looking forward to and include them in decision-making (e.g., what snacks to bring or what to wear).

• Is there any cost to attend Early Childhood Advocacy Day?
  • No! This is a free event, open to all!
• Can I bring my child(ren) to Advocacy Day?
  • We ask you to consider the accessibility statement when deciding to bring children/minors to the event. Early Childhood Advocacy Day will be a long day, especially for little ones. If you think your little one is up to it, they are welcome to attend, but keep in mind the trip from Chicago to Springfield is approximately 3.5 hours, and there are no activities for children at the capitol building. Start Early and organizing partners will work to provide a safe and accommodating space for all participants. Parents/Caregivers who plan to bring children to the event should include this information when registering for the event. Finally, we ask you to read the accessibility statement and agree to follow the parent/caregiver agreement (see below). For questions and details, contact Events@StartEarly.org.
• Can I register a group of people all at once?
  • Yes! To register a group of 10 or more, , please send an email to  events@startearly.org. We will send you a follow-up email with additional details on registration. Spots on the bus fill up quickly, please register groups as soon as you can. 
• Will I be able to speak with my lawmaker?
  • We hope so! Some lawmakers might be on the legislative floor, in hearings, meetings, or other appointments while others may be in their offices. We highly encourage you to contact your lawmaker to schedule an in-person meeting. Let them know you are available to meet between 10-11:30 am and 12:30-1:45 pm. If you are unable to speak with your legislator, you can always leave materials with their administrative staff. We encourage you to follow up with them. Not sure how to contact your lawmaker? Check out our informational videos below.
• How do I find my lawmaker during Early Childhood Advocacy Day?
  • House and Senate Chambers 
    • Usually, both the House and Senate go into session at noon. So that would be a good time to go to their chambers, located on the 3rd floor of the Capitol Building.  
    • Use a business card to call your lawmaker out of their chamber. You may use your own, or a blank one that event volunteers can provide to you. 
  • Offices: The offices of Senate and House leadership are located throughout the Capitol Building.  All other representatives and senators are in the Stratton Building. 
    • There are maps and directories in your folders to help you find your lawmaker’s office.  
    • Participants can access the Stratton building through the Basement level of the Capitol Building and follow the tunnel. 
    • The Capitol Police and information desk can provide additional information.  
  • Cafeteria and Hallways: You might run into your lawmaker in the cafeteria (located in the tunnel below the Capitol Building) or even in the hallway as you are walking throughout the Capitol Building Complex. Make sure you know what your lawmaker looks like and what their name is so that you can spot them anywhere. 
• Will there be other people/groups at the capitol?
  • The state capitol is a busy place. There is a chance that other groups may present also for their interests during the same time.
• What will be provided during the day?
  • We will provide transportation (first come, first serve), snacks, lunch, training and materials. If you do not wish to receive training, you can proceed to the state capitol to meet with your lawmaker.
• I have never advocated before so I’m nervous about speaking with my lawmaker.
  • Don’t be nervous. Lawmakers made it to the legislature because they were voted in by people like you. Therefore, lawmakers represent their constituents—you! And you probably have advocated before, but didn’t realize it. Advocacy means building support for an issue. You advocate when you speak up and educate someone on a topic. Anyone can advocate by simply sharing their personal stories.
  • Don’t worry about getting the talking points perfectly right or about answering questions you might get from lawmakers. Your legislator needs to hear:  
    • Why you are here.
    • Why early care and education programs are important to you. 

• Why do we have to leave so early?
  • On Early Childhood Advocacy Day, we want to allow as much time as we can for you to meet with your lawmaker, so we take into consideration traveling time, rest stops, lunch and training.
• Information About Security at the State Capitol Building
  • Bags are subject to search and backpacks are discouraged. Metal detectors may be used. Pocket knives, pepper spray and mace will be confiscated.
• What else can I do on Early Childhood Advocacy Day?
  • Head to the 4th floor gallery to watch your representatives debate items on the floor of the House or Senate Chamber.  
  • Take a tour of the Capitol Building. Tours leave every 20 minutes. Sign up at the information desk in the Capitol Building Rotunda.  
  • Talk to our event staff to learn about other advocacy initiatives.

Start Early and our organizing partners are committed to providing all participants with a safe and welcoming environment. The event requires sitting, standing, and walking  for long hours (travel to Springfield, IL, lunch, optional day-of-training, midday rally, walking between and around the buildings within the Capitol Building Complex ). While in Springfield, advocacy day check-in and meals will be hosted at the Illinois State Library. The library is conveniently located next to the Illinois State Capitol Building. Advocates will need to walk to the Capitol Building. 

The Illinois State Capitol Building and Stratton Building require walking and standing. The buildings are handicap accessible; please note both are currently under construction. There is extremely limited seating at the Capitol Building. Advocates should anticipate standing/walking for the majority of their time. After several hours at the Capitol buildings, the event ends with participants free to leave. Attendees who took organized travel or parked at the meeting location will return to the library before departing home. Advocates should plan to return to the library by 2 p.m. when the buses leave. Please view the event website for the event agenda and a list of accommodations provided by the meeting organizer.  

If you have any questions about access or if you would like to request any reasonable accommodations that will facilitate your full participation in this event, such as ASL interpreting, captioned videos, Braille or electronic text, food options for individuals with dietary needs, etc., please include this information when you register for the event or contact the Start Early Event Planning Team at Events@StartEarly.org.