Jayne Gibson

Executive Director Austin Aspires

In the media there is debate surrounding the topic of early childhood education. Often families suggest that their children get enough education at home and don’t need to attend preschool. Some question how much structured learning is necessary or even beneficial for very young children. Others may resist or are unable to pay the expenses of a preschool education.

Multiple studies have shown that early education greatly benefits children. Three and four-year-old students who attend preschool are better equipped to learn, to understand the routines of a school day, and are socially and emotionally better prepared to succeed in school.

Some studies even suggest that preschool attendance leads to greater success later in personal and work life.Thomas Ehrlich and Ernestin Fu write, “It may seem surprising, but the experiences of children in their early years have disproportionately large impacts relative to experiences during school years and beyond.” In one experiment, a group of 123 low income black students were followed from the age of three until they were 50 years old. Graduation rate for those that had high quality preschool program was 20 percent higher than for those that did not. Median income by the age of 40 was markedly higher for the preschool group, and their overall life reflected healthier life practices and balance.

Equally as important as attending preschool, is the need to find a preschool that is right for your child and your family. The communities of Austin and Lyle are fortunate to offer a variety of preschool programs for preschool aged children. A selection of number of days per week, and the length of the day is offered at many preschools. Scholarships and transportation may be available as well.

It’s not too late. If you have a preschool aged child at home, or know of one, that is not yet enrolled in preschool this year, openings around our community still exist. A list of openings can be found on the Austin Aspires website under family resources – www.austinaspires.org/family-resources.html.

In the words of Bill Gates, “The first five years have so much to do with how the next 80 turn out.”