Why Early Childhood Education Matters More Than Ever

Why Early Childhood Education Matters More Than Ever 

Kelly Massey, Director of Preschool - Kindergarten at Westside Neighborhood School

As a parent, nothing is more poignant than leaving your young child in the care of another adult for the first time. Some parents feel most comfortable leaving their child at home with a nanny or other caregiver, believing that one-on-one care is best. Many parents worry that their toddler is too young for a group care environment; research shows, however, that the benefits of quality group care for children as young as six months are clear. 

Long-Term Benefits

While it’s natural to feel nervous about leaving your child, research shows that in the right setting, early group care can be deeply beneficial. Children who enter group childcare as early as 12 months old have better long-term health, academic, and behavioral outcomes. As adults, they are more resilient to stress and setbacks.  These benefits depend on the quality of care, specifically, experienced caregivers, open-ended materials, and a developmentally appropriate environment and program. Parents and caregivers should look for child-centered, early childhood education that is responsive to children’s needs, including the need for a break, naps, adult relationships, and lots of time for play.  

Cognitive and Academic Development

The first years of a child’s life are crucial for learning and development. An infant’s brain doubles in size before age one, and 80% of its development occurs before age three. By age five, most of the brain’s growth and development has already happened, and their brains are 90% of their adult size. This rapid development is shaped by early experiences. Play with peers, trusting relationships with responsive adults, and a rich, open-ended environment that children can explore freely give children experiences that lead to happy, healthy adulthood. 

A study of one quality care model found that at age three, the more time a child spent in their program, the higher their rating on social emotional skills, executive function skills, and early math skills. 

Benefits for Parents 

One less-discussed aspect of early care is its positive effect on family systems. Families today are increasingly isolated, with extended family often living far away and support systems less stable. Caring for young children full-time can be exhausting. Most parents benefit from a community of support, which preschool can provide. 

Parents benefit from conversations with experienced childcare professionals, who can offer perspective and advice and might see their child and children’s behavior in a different light. Parents of young children at the Westside Neighborhood School Early Childhood Center, where  I am director, have mentioned that working in partnership with their child’s teachers has given them a better understanding of child development and an appreciation for their child’s capabilities.

Studies have shown that consistent, high-quality child care is the number one thing parents say would improve their mental health. Many people find that being a full-time stay-at-home parent doesn't satisfy every need. For those people, returning to work is essential to their self-esteem and their ability to create a joyful home life for their children.  Knowing they have quality childcare is key to this.

Choosing care for your young child is one of the most personal, heart-wrenching decisions you’ll make as a parent. While it may feel like a leap, high-quality early childhood programs can support your child’s development and your well-being as a parent. When children are nurtured in responsive, enriching environments, they thrive, as do families.

 

At Westside Neighborhood School (WNS), our Reggio-inspired preschool is a warm, nurturing environment where even our youngest learners thrive. We’re proud to now welcome children as young as two years old, with extended year care through June and July—perfect for families seeking both joyful early learning and support for working parents. Learn more at wns-la.org.