But when a family has difficulty paying the bills, buying groceries, or struggling with medical conditions, raising children is much more difficult and stressful. New Mexico has tremendous opportunities to invest in early childhood programs that dramatically improve educational outcomes and family and community well-being. NMCLP advocates for statewide policies that expand early childhood programs – such as child care assistance, home visiting programs, and pre-K, so that our children have the best chance of success–from birth into adulthood.