Robots that Bleed!?

The United States of Pizza: We all love it. We eat it almost every week. Any kids’ birthday party, our money 💰 is that we are buying a whole lotta’ pizza 🍕to feed those voracious appetites (cheese pizza of course). But the US is known for so many different styles. And with our diverse geographical subscriber base, let the pizza battles ensue! Chicago or NY-style? Pineapple and clams? It all depends on where you’re hailing from. Apparently, there are ‘pizza nerds’ out there who do only that…research pizza. From its US origins in 1905 and its spread from there. So in case you’re snacking on some pizza for lunch today and want to learn more about that tasty treat we all rely on, check out this nerdy video that may give you more than you care to know about.

State of the ECE Market

As the ECE industry continues to operate in a state of unknown with various funding cuts, we want to make sure we can provide updates that matter. Let’s take a look at some recent updates and “what to expect.”

ECE Market to Grow in 2025:

A recent market analysis is showing big growth ⬆️ for childcare services in 2025 and following years. In fact, the early childhood education market size has been growing in recent years, and that growth is not slowing down. The market was estimated to be $282.46 billion in 2024. And in 2025, it’s expected to hit $310.14 billion. That’s a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of almost 10%!

The main drivers are…drumroll please, the growing number of working families. But that’s not it. According to the report, it’s a fine balance of other factors, such as psychological theories of development, economic growth, workforce needs, government policies and funding, educational research, and child welfare and protection movements. So while funding impacts are expected, the need for services is expected to reach new heights.

Affordability Benchmark

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that childcare costs should not exceed 7% of a family's annual income. Now, those figures may shift with ongoing changes in our Federal Agencies. However, as of 2025, only 12 states meet this affordability threshold. In fact, the top 10 states (for married couples) were all well over 10% as a % of income, and with the growth expected in the industry, these numbers are not looking to get better. Want to see how your state ranks? Check out this map:

What Others Are Doing to Help:

People out there care 💪🏻 by keeping up the good fight and want to help make sure that the affordability remains on the forefront.

Legislative Efforts: Even though it may seem like our politicians have forgotten about us, others are still rising to the challenge. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Dan Sullivan reintroduced the bipartisan Child Care Workforce and Facilities Act. The legislation aims to provide competitive grants to states for training childcare workers and building or renovating facilities, particularly in rural areas facing shortages. Let’s keep an eye on this one. 🤞🏻

State-Level Initiatives: In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont's 2025 State of the State address highlighted efforts to reduce the cost of living, including support for affordable childcare. The state is focusing on enhancing public schools, modernizing community colleges, and supporting initiatives that make childcare more accessible and affordable for families.

It’s important to remember, we all have a voice and say. Please be sure to be vocal with your local, state, and federal representatives!

The Internet is a Playground:

🗓️ On this Day in History: Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. 🐝 American boxer Muhammad Ali, known at the time as Cassius Clay, became the world heavyweight champion by knocking out Sonny Liston in seven rounds. 😈 Scary Tech: A new startup in Poland created “the world’s first bipedal, musculoskeletal android.” The startup says the robot has synthetic organ systems and “will bleed out” if stabbed with a fork. I think if I saw this thing in real life, I would use more than just a fork….Eeek.

😇 Coping: Outrage fatigue is a real thing. With so many things bombarding our senses in a world of nonstop news, we can get overwhelmed. Here are some tips on how to help.

❤️ Aww, That’s Sweet!: A moment of peace.

YOUR VOICE COUNTS

Is there a topic you want more info on or want to share a funny story? Then let us know! Shoot us a quick email at [email protected]. This newsletter is for you, and well, you should have a say, don't’ you think?