- By Eden
- Salley
Rethinking Early Education: More Than Just Daycare
This article is part of our weekly series Executive Function Tips for Families.
The perception of childcare is shifting as a growing body of research highlights the importance of early childhood and pre-kindergarten (pre-K) as a critical period for cognitive development, rather than just a form of daycare. Historically, pre-K programs were seen as places where children could socialize and be cared for while parents worked. However, recent studies have demonstrated that high-quality early education programs provide essential developmental benefits that set the stage for future learning.
Changing Perceptions
The importance of pre-K education is evident in policy changes, increased funding, and the expanding enrollment of children in pre-K programs across the United States. According to the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER), “Many states have significantly expanded access to publicly funded pre-K programs. For example, in 2002, only three states served more than 50% of their 4-year-olds in state-funded pre-K programs. By 2020, that number had grown to 13 states.”
Moreover, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) has consistently advocated for the importance of high-quality early education. Former NAEYC President Ann McClain Terrell has emphasized that early education is “essential for setting children on a path to academic and life success,” aligning with the organization’s mission to promote educational equity and excellence from the earliest years.
The Role of Early Education in Cognitive Development
Early education programs that focus on cognitive skills are crucial for developing the abilities that children will need throughout their schooling. A study by the Harvard Graduate School of Education found that children who attended high-quality early education programs showed significant improvements in both reading and math skills, which persisted into elementary school (Weiland & Yoshikawa, 2013).
The Benefits of High-Quality Early Education Programs
The benefits of focusing on executive function in early childhood extend beyond academic achievement in grade school. Studies have found that children who participate in these programs are less likely to repeat grades, require special education services, or drop out of school. They are also more likely to graduate from high school and attend college, leading to better long-term outcomes in terms of employment and earnings (Barnett & Hustedt, 2011).
The Growing Investment in Early Education
Governors across the United States have demonstrated strong support for early childhood education, recognizing its critical role in setting children up for success. For instance, Governor Phil Scott of Vermont has been a vocal advocate, emphasizing that early education not only enhances the lives of young children but also boosts the overall prosperity of the state. In 2024, he issued a proclamation for the “Week of the Young Child,” highlighting the importance of investing in early childhood education. Despite occasional disagreements with the state legislature over funding, particularly concerning new taxes, Scott’s commitment to fostering high-quality early learning opportunities remains clear (“Lawmakers Override Gov. Scott’s Child Care Veto,” 2023).
Similarly, Governor Jay Inslee of Washington has championed early childhood education through initiatives like the “Early Start Act,” which aims to expand access to quality early learning, especially in underserved communities. Inslee’s efforts reflect a broader belief that early education is vital for closing achievement gaps and preparing children for success in both school and life (Baker, 2023).
Choosing the Right Pre-K: Setting the Stage for Future Success
When selecting a pre-K program for your child, consider whether the program is designed to nurture your child’s cognitive growth. High-quality early education should go beyond basic care, focusing on developing skills that lay the groundwork for future success in school and life. As you evaluate your options, think about how the program and its curriculum support your child’s overall development. Choosing the right early education setting can make all the difference in your child’s long-term outcomes.
References
Baker, Linda. “Inslee’s Early Start Act: A Push for Expanding Access to Quality Early Learning.” The Seattle Times, 12 Mar. 2023, seattletimes.com/education/inslees-early-start-act. Accessed 21 Aug. 2024.
Barnett, W. S., & Hustedt, J. T. (2011). “Improving Public Financing for Early Learning Programs.” Early Childhood Research & Practice, vol. 13, no. 1, 2011.
Colorado Department of Early Childhood. “Colorado Universal Preschool Program.” Colorado.gov, 2023.
Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families. “Early Start Act.” Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families, https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/about/government-affairs/early-start-act. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.
“Lawmakers Override Gov. Scott’s Child Care Veto.” VTDigger, 20 June 2023, vtdigger.org/2023/06/20/lawmakers-override-gov-scotts-child-care-veto/. Accessed 21 Aug. 2024.
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). “Preprimary Education Enrollment.” U.S. Department of Education, 2021.
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). “High-Quality Early Childhood Education.” NAEYC.org.
NIEER. “Executive Summary.” National Institute for Early Education Research, 2023, nieer.org/yearbook/2023/executive-summary.
New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department. “Budget Increase Expands Pre-K Access.” ECECD, 2023.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. “Preschool Development Grants.” Early Childhood Development, https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ecd/early-learning/preschool-development-grants. Accessed 21 Aug. 2024.
Weiland, C., & Yoshikawa, H. (2013). “Impacts of a prekindergarten program on children’s mathematics, language, literacy, executive function, and emotional skills.” Child Development, vol. 84, no. 6, pp. 2112-2130.
Yoshikawa, H., et al. (2013). “Investing in our future: The evidence base on preschool education.” Society for Research in Child Development and Foundation for Child Development.
