In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, we sit down with Elliot Haspel, a nationally recognized child and family policy expert and author of Crawling Behind: America's Childcare Crisis and How to Fix It and Raising a Nation: 10 Reasons Why Every American Has a Stake in Childcare for All. Together, we explore why universal childcare is not just a family issue but a societal one, rooted in brain science, economic sustainability, and the moral imperative to support children and caregivers. Elliot shares actionable insights on how policymakers, educators, and community leaders can create a mixed-delivery childcare system that prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education, equity, and the well-being of families. Tune in to learn how we can collectively reimagine childcare as a public right. Outline

Introduction: Early Childhood Education and Personal Background

Defining Caregivers and the Importance of Early Years

Why Childcare Matters for Everyone

Hope and Progress in Childcare Policy

Building Public Will and Expanding the Constituency

Integrating Childcare into Society and Development