Before you wonder why it is crucial to figure out ways how to fund child care, a summit held in Sturgeon Bay on Tuesday explored why it is essential in the first place. The United Way of Door County, Door County Economic Development Corporation, and the Women’s Fund of Door County hosted the Door County Child Care Summit on Tuesday to discuss important topics related to child care. The industry has been a significant topic of discussion for the United Way of Door County and the Door County Economic Development Corporation because of how it relates to workforce development and the area’s ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) population. One important reason why child care is so essential is that it gets the child off on the right foot. Door County Medical Center Pediatrician Dr. Shane Colvin discussed what impacts early brain development. The first few years of a child’s life are very important as it lays the foundation for their future regarding their learning and behavior. By building a strong foundation now, Colvin says they will be better ready for school, and their learning potential can take off.

Speakers also addressed the child care marketplace and the industry’s funding models during the morning summit, which was attended by dozens of stakeholders.