Finding Commonalities and Solutions With Decision-Makers
Characteristics Specific to PN-3
Well-being for babies, children and families is a broadly shared priority. National research shows that policy influencers across the ideological spectrum understand the importance of the prenatal-to-three (PN-3) period, especially around brain development.
But what that means in practice — especially where public policy is involved — varies broadly.
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Many decision-makers we talked with cited the link between reading on grade level by the third grade and graduation. Decision-makers didn’t cite a specific source, but “Double Jeopardy” is a commonly cited case study.
TIPSharing that you recognize the importance of third-grade reading shows that you have a point of agreement and lets you start in alignment. Then, connect that to strong PN-3 well-being, health and development to make a case for early action.
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In most cases, that is perceived to mean mom is eating well, not using alcohol or drugs, and seeing a doctor. Many conservative decision-makers think moms need education on how to be healthy and care for a new baby. There is also a perception that there are existing resources (other than government) and that parents need to be made aware of them.
"Yes. I agree there is an obligation to help the mom after the birth of the baby. Wraparound supportive services. We need to make sure there is an awareness of what is available. There is help available, but people don’t know how to access it. They need to make the right connections. Church groups, moms groups." — State representative, male, 48, urban/suburban, Church and Country
"The ability to encourage young families — mom and dad. Engage them. Make them aware of what’s available. Healthy choices. Any information that can set the family up to succeed as a unit. Not just the mom. Having the right message to encourage that. “Where does society get its strength from — the family. That’s the future. Only talking about the mom is not the whole picture." — Former state representative and state senator, male, 58, suburban, Economic Influenced
Shifting Divisive Issues to Common Ground
As access to the full spectrum of reproductive services declines in regions of the country, several decision-makers have noted a need to address the increase in babies born into situations that may be less than ideal.
“If we want people to choose life, we have to be committed to helping people see how it can work.” — Executive director of a conservative think tank, female, mid-30s, rural, Populist-Aligned
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“One thing we can probably agree on is that there are babies being born into less-than-ideal situations. Together we can make sure they are healthy and supported from the start — which prepares them to read by third grade and hit other crucial milestones.”
“Struggling mothers need help now to raise their children and keep their families together.”
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Both statewide and in local communities, some decision-makers said simply, “I don’t know,” when asked what supports existed. When they did give examples, it was programs and access to healthcare that came to mind — not policies.
TIPLead into your topic by acknowledging that a lot of things come across their desks and you’re hoping to share more information about X. Set the stage for general engagement without putting them on the spot — this is (possibly) your opportunity to be a partner in expanding their knowledge and perspective.
PN-3 Policies
When it comes to PN-3 policy decisions, some shared beliefs among conservative decision-makers include:
Policies ideally will benefit every child. It’s helpful to acknowledge that, and then discuss how starting where the need is greatest and then expanding makes policies most effective.
Anything interpreted as discouraging work and self-sufficiency is generally a nonstarter. Conservative decision-makers favor a limited safety net and believe that already exists through SNAP, WIC, Medicaid and other programs.
ROI and avoiding waste matters. Be prepared to talk about the desire to prioritize limited resources. Make a strong argument for why an investment in your policy/program is a smart use of tax dollars. You may find yourself making the case that the program is necessary — and then addressing concerns from decision-makers who favor limited government or perceive PN-3 programs to be riddled with waste and fraud.
Government should play a limited role, particularly when it comes to children and families. Conservative decision-makers have a preference for empowering parents, and when they need help, communities, nonprofits and churches can play a leading role in helping families.
“If you lead with a government-only solution, then conservatives will be put off by that. But if you lead with everyone has a lift in this, you will be met with agreement.” — State director, conservative political organization, male, early 40s, urban, Economic Influenced
PN-3 Policy Alignment
When it comes to elements of PN-3 policies that are generally supported or opposed, there are some shared themes to consider.
Shared sympathy for challenges and solutions:
Lack of affordable housing.
Lack of affordable, or even available, quality childcare.
Increasing costs of consumer goods.
Potential support:
Some decision-makers may assume there is adequate support available to new parents after a baby is born; in reality, many communities offer far less than the level of support needed. For example, many decision-makers were unsure what Medicaid does and doesn’t cover, or who provides support for postpartum depression and other needs.
In discussion of family economic support, decision-makers may favor programs that let working people keep more of their earnings. Proving the impact of these strategies is crucial.
“If it means a check sent from the government, no. If it means a tax credit, maybe. We could talk.” — State representative, male, 46, suburban, Populist-aligned
Firm opposition:
Minimum wage increase, which is not supported nor understood to specifically benefit new parents and babies.
Mandated family leave, especially for small businesses — though there is softer opposition for paid family leave offered by private employers as a benefit.
Areas where solutions are perceived to be in place for most people if they know about them and choose to access them:
Family support through churches and nonprofits.
Food security, via food banks and government programs, including feeding kids in public schools.