Investing in high-quality early childhood learning programs is important to prepare your child for both school and future careers. Research shows that KER-K programs improve academic outcomes and support long-term success, including university and career preparation. Despite these benefits, early learning programs are often the first programs to face budget cuts, with some being shut down. Pre-K funds are required to ensure that children have an educational future.
1. Pre-K sets up kids for later success
Katie Healden
Ask your primary school teacher and tell them you can find children who have participated in a quality Pre-K program. But ask your parents if a quality program is affordable, and the answer may vary, especially depending on where they live. Research consistently shows that children attending Pre-K scores score higher on tests and develop better literacy and mathematics skills. KER-K funding is essential to ensure that every child is set for success in all grades that follow.
2. Pre-K helps to bridge the achievement gap
Allison Egitt
Prekindergarten provides children with access to a rich learning environment that supports early cognitive development for children with resource-lack backgrounds. For many children in low-income families, Pre-K teaches important early learning skills that may not develop at home. Additionally, Pre-K programs typically employ trained educators who use research-based educational strategies to support young children’s development. High quality education is essential to ensure that all children receive the support they need to thrive academically, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
3. Pre-K boasts great economic benefits
Allison Egitt
Scientists say that brain development from birth to age 5 is the most important time of learning, making early childhood education a wise investment. Research shows that cost reductions can be achieved through reduced special education needs, improved health and lower crime rates. Highly educated workforce also boosts the economy. With many parents working, Pre-K provides a safe space for children to develop important skills while supporting their children’s future success as skilled and productive workers.
4. Pre-K helps children develop executive functional skills
Allison Egitt
In today’s fast-paced world, successful adults need strong executive functional skills. These important skills, such as working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and self-regulation, begin to develop during infancy. Executive functions in the brain continue to be strengthened through childhood, adolescence and early adulthood. However, the foundation of these skills is placed exactly in the first five years of life if the child is qualified for Pre-K. Pre-K gives children the opportunity to develop these skills by learning from skilled teachers and interacting with peers.
5. Pre-K can even affect career preparation
Katie Healden
Educational research consistently shows that children participating in high-quality Pre-K programs excel in primary, middle and graduate schools and are more likely to pursue higher education. Pre-K lays the foundation for academic success and gives children a head start that may not have been. It promotes curiosity, independence and a lifelong love of learning.
Investing in high-quality pre-kindergarten programs is not just an educational priorities, but a critical economic and social need. The long-term benefits of early childhood education make society one of the smartest investments. To build a more equitable and prosperous future, we need to prioritize funding for early learning and ensure that every child has the opportunity to gain the full potential from the beginning of their academic journey.
