Children who attend good early education programs are more likely to stay in school and have strong education outcomes. We must ensure these programs thrive.
The evidence is strong. Pre-school and early education matters, and quality matters. Several studies that have followed kids over multiple years show that children who show up to kindergarten underprepared have a lower rate of success academically.
High-quality early childhood education for kids from low-income families show a 7:1 benefit-to-cost ratio, meaning every dollar invested saves $7 in future costs.
The benefits of early intervention can be tremendous. Studies have shown a return on investment ranging from 3:1 to 17:1. Every dollar spent has a very healthy return. If we want to reduce child poverty and poverty in general, education is the key to breaking the cycle. On average, high-quality early childhood education for kids from low-income families show a 7:1 benefit-to-cost ratio, meaning every dollar invested saves $7 in future costs.
The solution to this problem is complicated, but it starts with funding at the state and national levels for quality early interventions including pre-school, home-based childcare, training parents on providing early education, and in-home visits.
NEXT STEPS
Learn about supporting early childhood education
Understand potential impacts
University of Chicago - Early Childhood Education Whitepaper
The Hill - Child Care for Working Families Act will improve the quality and quantity of child care
Other content can be found through a search for "funding early childhood education"
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