Because the Early Years Last a Lifetime
The Challenge We Face
Tennessee is at a critical juncture. Only 40% of our third-graders are reading and doing math at grade level. This alarming statistic isn’t just a number—it represents thousands of children who may struggle to succeed in school and beyond. Third-grade proficiency in both reading and math is crucial for future academic success and life outcomes. Children who aren’t reading proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Similarly, early math skills are powerful predictors of later academic achievement.
This challenge presents an urgent call to action for all Tennesseans. By focusing on early childhood development, we have a unique opportunity to change this trajectory and build a stronger future for our state.
The Critical Early Years
The foundation for a turnaround lies in the earliest years of a child’s life. In first few years of life, children experience a period of rapid brain development that shapes their future learning capacity. During this time, over 1 million neural connections are formed every second. These connections, influenced by a child’s experiences and environment, form the architecture of the brain – influencing cognitive functions, emotional regulation, and social interactions. Positive caregiving experiences are crucial for healthy brain development. Neglect or adverse experiences can disrupt this process, leading to long-term cognitive and emotional difficulties. Ensuring rich, stimulating environments and high-quality caregiving during the early years is vital for optimal brain development. By investing in high-quality early care and education, we can ensure that our youngest Tennesseans have the strong start they need to thrive in school and beyond.
The Economic Impact
Investing in early childhood isn’t just about education—it’s smart economics. Nobel laureate economist James Heckman’s research shows that high-quality early childhood programs can yield a 13% annual return on investment. This return comes through improved education outcomes, better health, reduced crime, and increased earnings. For every dollar invested in early childhood programs, society gains up to $7.30 in economic returns over the long term. By prioritizing early childhood development, we’re not just helping children—we’re strengthening Tennessee’s economy and future workforce.
Creating Equal Opportunities
Quality early childhood programs are powerful tools for creating equal opportunities and addressing the achievement gap we see in third-grade proficiency. Children from low-income families who participate in high-quality early education programs are more likely to graduate from high school, attend college, and have higher earnings as adults. They’re also less likely to need special education services or become involved in the criminal justice system. By focusing on early intervention, we can level the playing field and give all Tennessee children, regardless of their background, the chance to reach their full potential.
A Call to Action for Tennessee
The science is clear, the economic case is compelling, and the urgency is evident in our third-grade proficiency rates. Now is the time for action. We call on parents, business leaders, legislators, and all Tennesseans to prioritize investments in early childhood programs, promote family-friendly workplace policies, and advocate for policies that support young children and their families.
By investing in our youngest learners, we invest in Tennessee’s future. So be a loud voice for little kids!
