Many of us can relate to the notion of "getting off to a good start." For CEOs, a good start may come in the form of a new product that will secure their company's future. For entrepreneurs, it could be securing vital seed money for a start-up with potential. For parents, it means having access to tools, information and resources that will help their child to thrive.
Think of babies as society's start-ups, with limitless potential. From day one, babies are absorbing countless cues and inputs that work to shape their brains, their social and emotional skills, and their chance for lasting success. When these inputs are positive and babies are nurtured and well supported, they get off to a good start. But when they are burdened by stress, in their families or communities, their ability to get a good start and to reach their potential down the road is significantly threatened.
While critically important for babies and families, a good start is also perhaps the most important investment the country can make in its future. By investing in its youngest, most vulnerable citizens, society is priming itself for future success. Strong babies -- both physically and emotionally -- grow into strong citizens, workers, and parents. Strong families are, quite simply, the backbone for this country's future success and achievement -- the ultimate start-up incubators.
Success, however, does not happen by chance. The successful CEO or entrepreneur has a vision of a strong finish, ample financial backing, and a roadmap for getting there. Likewise, ensuring society's start-ups reach their potential requires that Congress invest in a robust, comprehensive plan to support all families in shaping the workers and citizens of tomorrow.
Many families don't have access to the social and economic resources that allow for positive nurturing and early learning experiences for their babies. Infants and toddlers in families with lower incomes, less education, and fewer social supports are more likely to show gaps across all domains of development. A disproportionate number of these children are also racial or ethnic minorities, underscoring a lack of equity in resources and opportunities. As a result, these kids often are playing catch-up from the earliest of ages. The bottom line: science tells us that Pre-K, while important for every child, is too late to start our investments.
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