Early childhood education beneficial to more than just children
Programs benefit the economy now and in the future
5:40 p.m. Monday, September 17, 2007
Studies and reports… They all come back with the same results. The early years are the most important in determining children's success in school and beyond.
But at the Governor's Summit on Early Childhood Education, Kathleen Sebelius said it's time to step away from those facts and figures.
“We don't need any more studies. We don't need anymore data. We don't need anymore documents. We know those years are absolutely critical,” Sebelius said.
So, the governor and child education experts want help from an unexpected place, the business community. They say parents and kids aren't the only ones who benefit from early childhood education. Our economy does, too.
The United Way released information saying,"Early learning has an immediate economic benefit because efficiency goes up when workers know their child is in a safe place, like an early learning center."
According to the United Way, a lack of child care leads to employee absences that cost employers $3 billion a year.
Sebelius says the numbers are compelling, but they shouldn't be what moves people to action.
“It's not just about the smart thing to do in terms of investments, but it's the right thing to do,” Sebelius said.
Today's summit cost $10,000 to put on, but was paid for with a grant from the National Governor's Association.
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