Parents Unite 2026

Your voice matters. Let Congress hear it.

Parents Unite brings Head Start parents and caregivers together to speak directly with their member of Congress about why Head Start matters for children and families in their district. Sign up below to stay connected, learn what’s ahead, and take part in this nationwide effort to strengthen early learning.

About Parents Unite

Parents Unite is a nationwide initiative that brings Head Start parents and caregivers together to speak directly with their members of Congress in April 2026. Led by the National Head Start Association (NHSA) in partnership with state and regional associations, this effort is designed to ensure families have a seat at the table in decisions that affect Head Start and the communities that it serves. Parents Unite is rooted in a simple truth: the greatest strength of Head Start is the families who know its impact best.

Why Parents’ Voices Matter

Legislators make decisions that affect Head Start at every level of government, and they rely on families to help them understand what those decisions mean in their communities and districts. Parents Unite provides participants with the tools, confidence, and opportunities to share their child’s story and explain how Head Start supports healthy development, school readiness, family stability, and opportunity, in communities across the country.

How Parents Unite Builds Advocacy Power

Through parent-led advocacy, dedicated training opportunities offered through NHSA’s Leadership Academy, informational Zoom meetings, and local actions, participants will connect with one another and strengthen their advocacy skills. Together, they will build momentum toward April 2026, when families nationwide will meet with members of Congress both locally at state offices and in Washington, D.C.

During Parents Unite April there will be:

Local district meetings: Parents and caregivers across the country will meet with their U.S. Congressional Representatives at their local district offices in April, ensuring a strong presence in all 50 states.
A Washington, DC fly-in (April 21-23, 2026): A select group of parent advocates will travel to Washington, D.C., from April 21-23, 2026, to meet directly with their congressional leaders on Capitol Hill.

More details about the campaign will be shared soon. This webpage will be updated regularly as the Parents Unite campaign moves forward.

Open to All Caregivers

After careful consideration, we proudly chose “Parents Unite” because of the powerful impact of the word “Parents.” We want to be clear: this movement is for ALL the amazing caregivers of Head Start children. Whether you’re a foster parent, grandparent, older sibling, or guardian, etc. your voice is essential. We welcome you. You are Parents Unite!

Timeline

January

State and regional associations form State Teams for two parents and one support person for the April 21-23 Washington, D.C. Fly-In event.
Partners promote Parents Unite and encourage parents and caregivers to join.
January 20: National Parents Unite Zoom to inspire, connect, and share campaign goals.
Participants interested in storytelling and video advocacy are identified as Head Start Influencers.
Parents Unite sessions held at Winter Leadership Institute (January 26–29):

February

Registration form is shared.
State Team members formally register for participation.

February through March

Head Start Influencers meet regularly to build video and storytelling skills.
Regional parent Zooms build momentum and prepare participants for in-district visits.
NHSA Leadership Academy provides free online advocacy training.
Travel plans are finalized.
Congressional visits are identified and scheduled. Parent groups are organized and trained for in-district meetings April 1-12.

March

Agenda for the Parents Unite D.C. Fly-In event is finalized.

April

April 1–11: Parents and caregivers participate in in-district congressional visits.
Pre–Fly-In event Zooms prepare participants.
Detailed logistics, schedules, and advocacy materials are shared.
April 21–23: Parents Unite D.C. Fly-In event with Senate and House meetings.
Washington, D.C. Fly-In event participants use momentum to:

May

Parents Unite successes are highlighted at the NHSA National Conference.
Recruitment of additional participants continues.
Parents are supported in participating in May primaries.

September

New parents join Parents Unite as programs reopen.

October

Voter registration and civic engagement activities continue.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Resources

Parents Unite Launch Presentation (Slide Deck) — PPT | PDF

Printable Flyer – English — PDF | Word | Google Doc

Printable Flyer – Spanish — PDF | Word | Google Doc