Why is Early Childhood Important?
When it comes to quality in early childhood programs, one size does not fit all. Learning and development for each child is influenced by gender, race, ethnicity, language, socio-economic factors. The early years of a child’s life are very important for later health and development. The first 2,000 days of a child’s life sets the foundation for language development and social-emotional skills. In fact, according to research:
It is critically important for parents, family members, teachers, and the community to unite and support young children and families.
The Benefits of Early Childhood Programs
A huge amount of learning takes place between the ages of birth and five. During this time, an Early Childhood Program can help your child develop skills that will help them succeed in kindergarten and beyond!
Here are a few ways Early Childhood Programs benefit children.
Academic Growth
Research shows that children who participate in Early Childhood Programs are better prepared to start school. They also score higher on reading and math tests.
Social Development
Students who attend Early Childhood Programs have been shown to have better attendance and fewer behavioral problems. They are also exposed to early learning activities that boost creativity, problem solving, and social development.
A Successful Future
Research shows that students who participate in Early Childhood Programs are more likely to graduate from high school, be employed, and earn higher wages.
Early Childhood Programs Make a Difference!
Students who attend an Early Childhood Program are 48% more likely to obtain an associate’s degree than those who didn’t attend an Early Childhood Program.
Early Childhood students show 61% improvement in letter/word recognition compared to students who didn’t attend an Early Childhood Program.
Early Childhood students are more than twice as likely to be ready for Kindergarten compared to students who didn’t attend an Early Childhood Program.
Students who attend an Early Childhood Program are 23% more likely to attend a four-year college than those who didn’t attend an Early Childhood Program.