The crucial early years

Historically, we have emphasized a K-12 system of education, but we cannot afford to overlook the crucial early years that build the foundation for lifelong learning.

At birth, the majority of our internal structures perform as they will when we are adults. Our hearts beat and our lungs breathe. The brain, however, is remarkably unfinished. Science has shown that 80 percent of our critical brain development happens by age 3; 90 percent by age 5. New learning depends on prior learning. Any discussion of improving student learning must start in the earliest years. We can close the achievement gap before students reach the kindergarten door.

As a volunteer regional council member and early-childhood educator for 30 years, I support First Things First, which partners with parents and early-care providers to ensure all children start kindergarten ready to succeed. By providing access to quality early education, we avoid expensive remediation in later years. - Deborah J. Pischke, Ed.D.,Peoria

[Sam: Investment in early years is not a luxury but a necessity for your baby.]

http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/opinions/articles/2011/05/31/20110531tuelets317.html