As a parent, you want your child to have the best possible start in life. One of the most important ways to do this is by providing them with a high-quality early childhood education. Research shows the importance of early childhood education, and that children who attend quality preschool programs are more likely to have better academic and social outcomes than those who do not attend preschool. At The Astor, we’re exploring and implementing the insights and findings from The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Study of Early Child Care, one of the most comprehensive and influential studies on early childhood development.
The NICHD Study of Early Child Care was a longitudinal study that followed more than 1,300 children from birth through adolescence. The study examined the effects of early child care on children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Here are some of the key findings from the study:
High-quality preschool programs are linked to better outcomes.
The NICHD study found that children who attended high-quality preschool programs were more likely to have better academic and social outcomes than those who did not attend preschool. Specifically, the study found that children who attended high-quality preschool programs were more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and have higher earnings as adults.
Early child care can have both positive and negative effects.
The study found that the quality of child care was a key factor in determining its effects on children’s development. Children who received high-quality care had better outcomes than those who received low-quality care. For example, children who received high-quality care had higher cognitive test scores and better language skills. However, the study also found that children who spent more time in child care had lower cognitive and academic outcomes than those who spent less time in child care.
Parental involvement is crucial.
The study found that parental involvement is crucial for children’s development. Children who had more involved parents had better cognitive and academic outcomes than those who had less involved parents. For example, children who had more responsive and nurturing parents had higher cognitive test scores and better language skills.
In conclusion, the NICHD Study of Early Child Care provides important insights into the effects of early childhood education on children’s development. The study highlights the importance of choosing a high-quality preschool program for your child, as well as the importance of parental involvement in children’s development. As a parent, you can give your child the best possible start in life by providing them with a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters their development and growth.
Are you interested in providing your child with high-quality early education? With a focus on nurturing the whole child and providing engaging learning experiences, The Astor Academy is committed to helping children develop the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond. Learn more about their program and schedule a tour today!