The research is in. Effective care and learning in early childhood correlates directly to academic and professional success. It even leads to better health in adulthood.
But that’s not all. Access to high-quality early education means families can work with peace of mind, businesses can find and retain staff, and neighborhoods become stronger, healthier, and more business-friendly.
So, if you want to help the entire community grow, start with early childhood.
1. Young children begin strong and flourish
The importance of thoughtful, nurturing, and effective early learning and care can’t be overstated since millions of neural connections are formed during the first five years of a child’s life.
A young child’s experiences, good and bad, help determine their intellectual capacity, physical and mental health, and social-emotional skills. Quality childcare even correlates to academic achievement, professional success, and personal health.
2. Families can work with peace of mind
It’s almost like flipping a switch. When parents and caregivers know children are receiving high-quality learning and care, they can work with peace of mind, build careers, and strive for personal and professional goals.
Put another way, access to childcare = equal opportunities for all Worcester families.
3. Early education programs stay open and early educators gain experience
Why are so many learning and care programs closing? They can’t hire and keep staff. Why are so many early educators leaving the field? The pay is notoriously low—poverty wages, on average.
On the other hand, livable wages would help passionate, professional educators remain in the field, gaining valuable experience that translates into even better learning and care. Centers, too, can remain open and be the trusted partner families need.
4. Businesses benefit from a larger, more stable workforce
Talk about flipping a switch. When families have access to early education and care, Central Massachusetts businesses benefit from a more stable workforce. At a time when companies are struggling to fill positions, affordable childcare becomes even more important.
But the greatest advantages are realized long term, as young children grow up to be capable, productive employees—or business owners themselves.
5. Our community is a better place to live, for all of us!
High-quality, affordable early childhood education and care helps our community grow healthier, better-educated, and more prosperous. It improves graduation rates, allows families to build financial security, and encourages business-friendly regional economies with a viable workforce and engaged consumers.
Early childhood education and care makes life better for all of us. So, if you want to make a difference in Worcester, start by supporting young children. Donate today at edwardstreet.org/donate.