For millions of parents in the United States, raising a son or daughter is a combination of hope and sacrifice. With dreams of forging a more prosperous future for their children, the parents' efforts are undoubtedly heroic. They not only earn their bread by the sweat of their brow, they earn the collective progress of their community.

But today, even among those who fulfill their responsibilities and strive to get ahead, there is an increasingly present concern: how to build that future when the basic costs of living continue to rise?

That is why the results of the recent National Report on Latino Families 2026, prepared by AP-OD, UnidosUS and BSP Research, should alarm us. The situation is getting more difficult day by day. The survey, carried out among 1,300 parents and staff who work in preschool centers, shows that almost half of those interviewed consider that their financial situation worsened during the last year. 50% of them say they have less than $1,000 in savings, including 18% who have less than $100 available.

The results of the survey are a reflection of the economic devastation, sacrifices and incompatible decisions that our families experience firsthand every day. The money to buy groceries is limited, as the price of gasoline rises. The credit card is maxed out, the “bills” to pay are accumulating and the next medical visit is in doubt. While prices skyrocket, salaries stagnate and the dream of a better life disappears like water through our hands.

Children, like sponges, unfortunately absorb the ravages of an increasingly difficult life. It affects their development, and therefore, their future.

The first years are an investment in the future

These families understand something essential: the first years of life are a determining stage for a child's development. Therefore, access to affordable child care and quality early education should not be considered an additional benefit, but rather a necessary investment for the well-being of families and the country's economy.

The report reveals that 43% of parents identify access to quality child care and early education as one of the top priorities that Congress and the federal administration should address.

However, too many families continue to face obstacles. More than half of the parents surveyed (51%) indicate that their child has not received child care since birth, and among them, 32% indicate that the main reason is cost.

This has consequences that go far beyond the home. When a family cannot access child care, a child misses out on early learning opportunities and a parent may be forced to reduce work hours, turn down job opportunities, or postpone career goals.

Investing in early education means investing in the next generation, but it also means strengthening America's current workforce.

Bilingualism is a strength for our country

Families are also making clear what kind of future they want for their children: one in which they can take advantage of all the opportunities that the United States offers without losing the richness of their language and culture.

73% of parents surveyed affirm that they want their children to learn to read and write in both English and Spanish.

This data reflects a reality that we must recognize: bilingualism is a competitive advantage. Speaking more than one language strengthens children's academic, professional and economic opportunities, in addition to keeping family and community ties alive.

Bilingual and dual immersion programs do not separate students. On the contrary, they prepare them for an increasingly connected and diverse world.

The cost of living is also the cost of raising

The economic hardships families face don't end with child care. Food prices and healthcare costs are also putting considerable pressure on households.

58% of parents surveyed say they often or sometimes worry that food will run out before they have money to buy more.

Health presents a similar challenge. Although having health insurance is essential, coverage does not always guarantee complete access to necessary care. Among parents who have insurance, only 47% say their plan covers all of their medical needs.

This data reminds us that true affordability is not measured solely by having a job or having insurance. It is measured by asking whether a family can pay its basic expenses, care for its children, and receive medical care when needed.

(*) Steve Siañez is a senior state policy strategist for UnidosUS in California, where he works to promote policies that strengthen the educational, economic, and well-being opportunities for Latino families.

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