Why Early Learning Matters

High quality early learning experiences are important for Wisconsin. Early education is good for kids, good for parents and good for the economy:

Facts and Data:

Early learning prepares children for success in school and life.

• The early years are learning years. The foundation of a child's intellect and personality is formed by age 5

• Children with high-quality learning experiences and nurturing care develop competence that helps them succeed in school, including better social skills and solid foundation of language

• Without available quality early education, children with disabilities have few, if any, opportunities to interact with their non-disabled peers. This applies to 4K as well as child care/preschool. Inclusion matters!

High quality early learning settings support parents in their roles as caregivers and breadwinners.

• Wisconsin's parents of young children want their children in nurturing settings that help them learn, develop, and get ready for school

• 71% of Wisconsin's children under age six have working parents. Those parents want programs where their children are cared for and prepared for school.

Early education is a wise investment for the economy.

• Wisconsin's preschoolers are tomorrow's workforce. Investments in early learning yield long-term positive impacts on school achievement and employment readiness

• Investments in high-quality early education programs are cost effective, with the highest rate of return of any social investment, according to Nobel Laureate James Heckman, an economist at the University of Chicago

• Early education for children with special needs is critical to their educational and social development and also reduces the need for special education.