Making the case: Investing in early childhood development

The foundation for success in school and life begins at birth. To thrive and become productive adults, all children need: strong families, good health, quality learning opportunities and supportive communities.

Research shows long-term advantages for children involved in high quality early learning. These children did better in school; were more likely to graduate from high school; had significantly fewer arrests overall (and less likely to be arrested for violent crimes or for property or drug crimes); and were more likely to have a job at age 40 (and with higher earnings).

Investing in quality early childhood programs yields the greatest returns for individuals, families and society. For every dollar invested in a high quality early learning opportunity there is a benefit of $7.00 - $17.00 to society. This includes savings in educational programs, crime costs, welfare costs, and taxes received from higher earnings.

Unfortunately while early childhood research is strong, public investment is not. While most brain development occurs in the first few years of life, only 5% of public investment in children happens during this critical period.

Legislation and policies which promote quality early learning and support for young children and their families make a difference. For example, the T.E.A.C.H. program increases the capacity of the early childhood workforce by creating incentives for professional development.

Related Links:
http://birthtofivepolicy.org/index.php/making_the_case/
http://www.ncsl.org/programs/cyf/economic.htm
http://minneapolisfed.org/pubs/fedgaz/03-03/earlychild.cfm.
http://ced.org/docs/summary/summary_heckman.pdf