Early Education Month Highlights a Growing Need
February brings Mardi Gras, but it also brings Early Education Month. Leaders from EBR Early Childhood — Director Shinoa Thompson and Administrative Director Von Iyengar — say this month is a chance to focus on why early learning matters. They also stress that Louisiana still does not fully fund early childhood programs, which leaves families struggling to find affordable care.
Demand Far Exceeds Available Seats
Each year, about 18,000 babies are born in the Baton Rouge area. However, only 30% of them have access to a publicly funded seat. That leaves roughly 12,000 children without support. EBR’s Early Childhood Network currently offers 5,000 seats, which shows a major gap.
The cost adds pressure. Infant care averages $300 a week, and it does not get cheaper as children grow. As a result, many families cannot afford high-quality programs.
Why Early Learning Matters
Early care is not just child care. It builds language skills, social-emotional growth, and early academic readiness. Thompson explains that early learning even connects to crime prevention, because students who read by third grade have a better chance of graduating on time and avoiding long-term setbacks.
Where Baton Rouge Falls Behind
North Baton Rouge faces the biggest shortage of available seats. Many families in that area rent, and a large elderly population lives nearby. Meanwhile, mid-city and south Baton Rouge centers are full and often request more classrooms, but space is limited.
How EBR Is Funding the Work
Because the state provides limited funding, the network relies on local partners. Recently, groups like the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, the EBR Foundation, United Way, and La Force helped raise $1.05 million. The state will match that amount, bringing the total to $2.1 million for the 2026–27 school year.
How Families Can Enroll
Parents can learn more and apply for seats at ebrearlychildhood.com.