The Earlier the Better

The Earlier the Better

There has been a great deal of discussion about the importance of early education and preschool programs. Programs like Head Start have been under scrutiny because of funding issues and whether or not programs like these actually do work. In a 2008 research article, Jens Ludwig of the University of Chicago wrote that at that time over one million children were served by Head Start with a cost of $7 Billion. Ludwig noted that “The findings counter the view that only intensive (and expensive) early childhood interventions can generate long-term benefits, and they run counter to the perception that Head Start has been a failure from its inception. “

Another study was completed by the National Institute for Early Education Research. “The strongest evidence suggests that economically disadvantaged children reap long-term benefits from preschool. However, children from all other socio=economic backgrounds have been found to benefit as well. ( W. Steven Barnett) You can read the full report at http://nieer.org/resources/research/PreschoolLastingEffects.pdf

 A 15-year longitudinal study of low-income children in Chicago who participated in a school district preschool program found a 33% reduction in the rate of juvenile arrests, a 40% reduction in grade retention, a 41% reduction in the need for special education, and a 29% increase in the rate of high-school completion.

As educators we need to continue to press for funding for early childhood and preschool programs. We need to have the resources to identify learning disabilities and medical issues as early as possible. We also need to be able to provide healthy meals and snacks to children during the summer months. Be an activist. Contact local, state and federal officials to encourage them to support events for early childhood programs.

C.2013 J. Margolis