Cost Effectiveness
Research shows that investing early pays off over time by generating very high rates of return for children, their families, society, and the government. Benefits are both short-term, like higher IQ test scores, and long-term. Long-term benefits include:
- higher employment and earnings;
- better health outcomes;
- lower crime rates higher levels of verbal and mathematical intellectual achievement;
- greater success at school (lower special education and higher graduation rates); and,
- higher government revenues due to lower government expenditures and higher economic activity.
The economic benefits of early learning are clear and compelling. Cost-benefit analyses performed on quality early childhood programs show long-term returns of $4 to $8 for every $1 invested. The return on investment is significant for the child and family, the government, and society. (NIEER, 2005).
Washington's Investment
Washington's level of investment in early education is average compared to other states and was ranked fourteenth in a recent national survey of overall spending on early learning (NIEER, 2007). However, our investment still does not correspond with the dramatic level of learning that occurs from birth. While Eighty-five percent of a child's core brain structure is formed by age three, less than four percent of public investment in education and child development occurs during that period. (Children's Alliance, 2007).
In addition, Washington's investment in early learning education programs does not correspond to the demand that exists in our state. Consequently, access to quality and affordable child care is a large problem. At present, it is estimated that Washington's early learning programs (including Head Start and the state's Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program) serve only half of eligible low-income children, leaving more than 14,000 children unserved each year. (WSA of Head Start and ECEAP).
Funding quality early education programs is a good investment. Investing early in a child's life pays significant returns for children, their families, and society.
Washington Early Learning Resources:
Washington State Department of Early Learning
National Early Learning Resources:
Starting Smart: How Early Experiences Affect Brain Development
Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis
Major Studies:
- Carolina Abecedarian Project: Provides a comprehensive look at the landmark study of the benefits of early childhood education for poor children.
- High/Scope Educational Research Foundation: Provides research, development, training, and public advocacy to improve the life chances of children by promoting high-quality educational programs.
- Chicago Parent-Child Program: Provides comprehensive educational and family-support services to economically disadvantaged children from preschool to early elementary.
