The best time to talk to legislators

Here at Ready 4 K we've begun the process of preparing for the 2008 legislative session. This means that we're talking with our allies and developing a strong agenda that builds on our wins from the last session and works to make sure kids are ready to learn when they enter kindergarten. In addition to talking with our allies in the field, we are also meeting with legislators to let them know that we expect early childhood to again be a top priority in 2008.

You also can be meeting with your legislators right now and tell them you expect them be a champion for our youngest Minnesotans. In fact, this is the best time to talk to legislators. When they are not in session legislators are less rushed and have more time to listen. So, find out who represents you and sit down and hand-write a letter to your elected officials. Introduce yourself and let them know you're a constituent who cares about early childhood. Or, better yet, invite them out for coffee to talk about the importance of quality early learning for all. You don't have to be an expert, just speak from the heart. Ready 4 K has developed an advocacy toolkit to get you started, including a few talking points in case you need a reminder.

I'd love to hear how your conversations with legislators goes. Leave a comment or email and let me know.

And thanks for being a voice for our children!