Lesser-Known Benefits of Preschool

Debates about the merits of high quality early childhood education seldom go beyond the well-documented outcomes like better performance in school, better jobs, and reduced crime. However, Karen Schulman, a researcher with the National Institute of Early Education Research, analyzed a number of early childhood studies with an eye to gaining a broader insight on overlooked benefits. Considering such factors as family life, health behaviors, social adjustment, and financial stability, Schulman found that prekindergarten experiences can lead to better health consciousness and behaviors, and start children on the road to financial independence. In addition, she found that early childhood programs that enable children to take the initiative and make choices in their activities can be effective in motivating children to persist in achieving their goals and can foster their commitment to school.

To read Schulman’s report, “Overlooked Benefits of Prekindergarten,” go to
http://nieer.org/docs/index.php?DocID=123

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