Preparing Children to be Successful in School and Life

A high-quality early education is one of the most powerful supports a child can receive.  Because so many foundational skills and behaviors are learned in the early years, early childhood education pays dividends throughout a child’s life. Through our research, we have determined that:

• Children who are prepared to enter kindergarten academically, socially, and emotionally are more likely to achieve academic and life success.
• Investments in high-quality early education yield a 13% return per year based on increased school and career achievement and reduced social costs.
• More than half the achievement gap in later school years is present upon kindergarten entry.
• Every $1 invested in early childhood returns between $4 and $12 in savings for government and society by preventing things like grade repetition, early parenthood, and incarceration.

Additionally, access to high-quality early childhood education also supports more than children. With trusted care and support, parents can enter the workforce or complete training programs to improve family economic success.