It’s time to share your story! Tell the world – and your elected representatives in Congress – that babies don’t just need love; they need investment and policies that support them.  

One family with a baby age 0–3 from every state and Washington, DC will partner with ZERO TO THREE to share their story about raising a baby in America, including meeting directly with lawmakers in June 2026. Join us in telling Congress – It’s Time! 

Families selected for Strolling Thunder commit to engaging with ZERO TO THREE for at least one year to push for changes that support good health, strong families and positive early learning experiences for babies. Families will share their experiences, meet with policymakers, and more to raise their voices to help shape family-facing policies – all with support from ZERO TO THREE and past Strolling Thunder families. 

Apply Below to Represent Your State

As part of Strolling Thunder, families will travel to Washington, DC or participate virtually in meetings with Members of Congress about what babies and their families need – affordable, high-quality child care, health care, mental health supports, economic security, and more – that give every baby a strong start.  

All selected families will participate in webinars and one-on-one conversations with ZERO TO THREE staff to ensure you’re prepared to share your story and tell your elected representatives what your baby and family need to thrive. The application form will indicate, based on your state, whether you would be expected to attend in-person or virtual meetings with your Members of Congress. 

Who You Are

Families with a baby or toddler age 0–3 who are ready to: 

• Share personal experiences related to good health, positive early learning experiences, and/or supports that strengthen families. For example, families’ experiences could relate to child care access, health coverage, mental health supports for parents or babies, financial support like SNAP or tax credits, and more! 
• Participate in either in-person or virtual meetings with your Members of Congress, including attending preparatory calls and training. 

• Commit to share your story, join us for meetings, or take other steps to raise your voice over the next year and beyond!  

ZERO TO THREE will provide the preparation, training, and support you need throughout the year to share your story, meet with your elected officials, grow your skills, and be a voice for positive change for your baby and babies across America! 

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application below by February 13. 
Have questions? Read our FAQ’s

Each of our 51 families met with their state’s policymakers to tell their story and make sure Congress hears what babies and families really need: quality, affordable child care, paid family leave, economic security, and policies that give every baby a strong start.

See more news coverage from The 74 Million, The Morning Journal, and First Alert 7.

You can be a Champion for Change

Learn more about a few of the 2025 Strolling Thunder babies and read about one mom’s journey that led to her becoming an advocate.