Full Breakdown
Wisconsin Launches First State-Funded Child Care Program
2/1/2026, 11:22:48 PM
Introduction of the "Get Kids Ready" Program
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, alongside the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), has announced the launch of the state's first entirely state-funded child care program, named "Get Kids Ready." This initiative aims to provide free programming for families and will allocate $65 million in direct payments to child care providers who offer school readiness programming for four-year-olds during the 2026-27 school year and beyond. This program is part of a broader investment of over $360 million secured by Governor Evers in the 2025-27 Biennial Budget, aimed at stabilizing the child care industry and reducing costs for working families.
Objectives and Benefits
The "Get Kids Ready" initiative is designed to support child care providers serving four-year-olds, focusing on developing essential academic, physical, social-emotional, and self-help skills necessary for success in school. The state will compensate providers for the time children spend in this programming, effectively making it free for families. Governor Evers emphasized that this program is a critical component of efforts to stabilize the child care industry and enhance accessibility for families.
Ongoing Support for Child Care Providers
In addition to the immediate financial support, the program is structured to ensure sustainable, ongoing investments in Wisconsin's child care sector. DCF Secretary Jeff Pertl highlighted the importance of collaboration between child care teachers and parents to unlock children's potential, noting that many families face challenges due to limited spots and high costs. The "Get Kids Ready" program aims to address these issues by providing necessary resources and options for families.
Additional Investments in Child Care
The funding for the "Get Kids Ready" program is complemented by several other initiatives aimed at enhancing child care access across Wisconsin. This includes a $2 million grant to Wonderschool to help child care providers expand capacity and reduce waitlists, as well as $2 million for Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies to assist parents in finding local child care options. Furthermore, a pilot program with a budget of $28.5 million will increase payments to providers caring for infants and toddlers, ensuring more families can access quality, affordable child care.
Official Statements
Governor Evers stated, “Thanks to the investments I fought hard to secure in the bipartisan, pro-kid budget I signed last summer, we’re helping to stabilize our child care industry, support child care providers, and make child care more affordable and accessible for working families now and into the future.” He expressed pride in the program's launch, emphasizing its role in supporting Wisconsin's child care providers and aiding children's educational readiness.
What's Next
A list of participating child care providers in the "Get Kids Ready" program will be made available on the DCF's public website by February 15, 2026. Families with children who will be four years old on or before September 1, 2026, are encouraged to visit the DCF's webpage for more information on the program and the application process.
Conclusion
The "Get Kids Ready" program represents a significant step in Wisconsin's efforts to enhance child care accessibility and quality. By providing direct support to providers and families, the initiative aims to foster a more stable and effective child care environment in the state.
