Children-and-youth

Coronavirus

Child care providers ask state to hold off on in-person inspections

California wants to restart in-person inspections of child care centers. Providers are worried that the inspectors, who may not be vaccinated, could jeopardize the health of their charges and their business.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • April 19, 2021

California Divide

Almost two months later, child care providers still waiting for relief checks

It could be mid-May or later before some child care providers get state stipends promised to them as part of a coronavirus relief package. Providers worry they may not be able to hold out that long.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • April 13, 2021

Commentary

Create a youth development department in Los Angeles

Proposal would create a department to centralize L.A.'s youth programs, which are currently spread across 26 departments.

By Guest Commentary • March 30, 2021

California Divide

Thousands of child care centers shutter, spelling bad news for California

The coronavirus pandemic has decimated child care centers in California, with many closing permanently. The consequences will adversely affect children, parents, center operators and the state economy.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • March 24, 2021

Coronavirus

More than 12,000 coronavirus cases have been reported at California child care centers

Experts aren’t sure if the numbers are good or bad because of the number of variables involved and lack of similar data. Child care providers hope new relief from the state will help.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • March 4, 2021

Coronavirus

Burgeoning child care union secures COVID-19 relief funding approval

The state Senate budget committee approved disbursement of $144 million in federal funds to give child care providers some financial relief in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. If approved by the Legislature, it will be a major win for Child Care Providers United, which is still negotiating a master contract with California.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • February 22, 2021

Education

Low kindergarten attendance creates first grade problem

Missing kindergarten has always led to learning gaps. The pandemic has exacerbated the problem by creating a larger than normal cohort of kids that will need extra attention next school year.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • February 9, 2021

Coronavirus

COVID-19 cases, new syndrome on the rise among children, especially Latino children

As COVID-19 cases increase among adults, they have also increased in children, along with cases of a new inflammatory syndrome. Also like the adult population, Latino kids have borne a disproportionate brunt of the cases.

By Elizabeth Aguilera • January 21, 2021

Economy

California Policy & Politics: A Primer

Download and read this 53-page overview of all the major issues facing California policymakers.

By CalMatters Staff • January 14, 2021

Reader Reactions

All types of childcare are in crisis in the pandemic

Those with decision-making power at the state and federal level must be made aware of the depth and breadth of the need to help childcare providers.

By Guest Commentary • December 29, 2020