Many parents think education begins in school chairs, but they are most definitely mistaken. Children start to learn from the moment they are born; in fact, many studies explore the infant’s ability to absorb and process new information. Research has proven that certain colors and sounds have a significant impact on babies’ cerebral development, and that early learning and education have numerous benefits. Early childhood learning experiences can also leave children with a thirst for knowledge, encouraging them to pursue their own interests, seek out information and get creative.

Some great ways to get started at home include teaching your child the alphabet, letting them play with puzzles, musical instruments and interactive games, taking them for nature walks and visits to the zoo, teaching them numbers and how to count, and so much more!

There are many benefits to early childhood education for children from low-income families. In one famous study conducted in Ypsilanti, Michigan, 3-4 year olds were randomly assigned to a group that did not receive preschool education, and another group that did. Results of the study showed that there was a five times greater chance of those children that did not receive a pre-school education to become chronic lawbreakers by the time they reached 18 than those that did get early childhood education.

The same Michigan study showed that low-income children who were enrolled in a good preschool program had higher salaries than those that did not, by age 40, of about $5500 per year. There was also a greater likelihood of people who went to preschool to graduate from high school, own a home, and keep their marriages together longer.

The reason such results are seen are pretty clear. From the moment a visitor steps up to the reception desk until they end their visit they will see an environment which is nurturing, stimulating, and secure. The children’s physical needs are met to a high standard, while their emotional needs are also supported. It is no wonder that children with such a strong, healthy foundation grow up to be successful members of their communities.