Regardless of our political affiliation it is difficult under the best of circumstances to raise children. We all want our children to become full functioning, well-educated citizens being productive for our families and society.
What we do know is the immediate nurturing, socialization and mental stimulation from birth give children a real leg up. Certainly we should want that for our entire society because the lack of it for some eventually affects everyone.
We also know that children who have after-school activities — such as music, sports or hobby clubs — are more productive in their studies.
Therefore, along with the many already volunteering much time and personal money, I suggest that we as a society commit putting state money into pre-school education from birth — intensive, all-inclusive activities after-school and summer programs with mentoring from the local community members, including business organizations where it is most needed.
As parents, neighbors and citizens of Maryland, let's invest in our future.
Marcia Brooks, Timonium