| A vast body of research has demonstrated that ECD programs benefit children, families, and communities. The reduced dropout and repetition rates, improved school achievements, greater adult productivity, and higher levels of social and emotional functioning encouraged by ECD programs make them a highly cost-effective means of strengthening society as a whole by ensuring that its individual members live up to their full potentials.
Evaluations of well-conceived programs designed to foster early development demonstrate that children who participate in these programs tend to be more successful in later school, are more competent socially and emotionally, and show better verbal, intellectual and physical development during early childhood than children who are not enrolled in high quality programs. Benefits of ECD interventions can be found in the following areas:
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Higher intelligence scores
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Higher and timelier school enrollment
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Less grade repetition and lower dropout rates
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Higher school completion rates
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Improved nutrition and health status
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Improved social and emotional behavior
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Improved parent-child relationship
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Increased earning potential and economic self-sufficiency as an adult
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Increased female labor force participation
Numerous longitudinal studies on the benefits of early childhood programs for children living in poverty have been conducted in the United States, as well as a few in developing countries. These studies clearly indicate their cost-effectiveness and demonstrate the profound impact that early experiences have on adult life and productivity.
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