Both national and Colorado specific research find that the period between birth and age 5 is the most effective time to set children on a path for success because it is the time when children’s brains develop the most rapidly. This is the best time to invest resources in order to achieve credible financial and social returns, which also result in healthier, happier children, a more educated population and, ultimately, a stronger and more stable economy for our state.
Where Colorado Stands:
Three decades of national research link early childhood health and well-being to school readiness and long-term academic gains. This research suggests that child and family support programs aimed at parenting education, child health, and family mental health greatly improve school-age academic outcomes for young children. Similarly, we know that if children are school-ready at age 4, they are more likely to be successful students and graduate high school. Unfortunately, Colorado ranks 36th out of the 40 states that fund state preschool. Although our funding is low by comparison, Colorado has highly effective programs such as the state funded Colorado Preschool Program (CPP) and the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), which is the state child care subsidy program for low-income families.
What the Children's Campaign is Doing:
Because quality early childhood experiences are critical to promoting healthy children and families, educational success and, ultimately, ending the cycle of poverty, the Children’s Campaign advocates strongly for expanded access to quality early childhood programs and continued improvements in program alignment and efficiency. Specifically, we are focused on the following policy priorities:
Moving Forward
A quality early childhood is the most effective means to promoting healthy children and families, educational success, and, ultimately, ending the cycle of poverty. Children who enter school prepared to learn are most likely to grow up to be successful adults who contribute to Colorado’s well-being. As such, it is critical that advocates and policymakers support expanded access to quality early childhood programs and continued improvements in program alignment and efficiency.
Investing in Kids
Adequate funding is paramount to increasing access to high-quality early childhood experiences and providing support to families. The Children’s Campaign is focused on protecting against further cuts to the number of Colorado Preschool Program slots and funding levels and investments in quality initiatives such as early childhood teacher scholarship and quality improvement supports.
Additional Information
Want to Learn More?
For more information on early childhood care and learning in Colorado, please contact the Children’s Campaign’s Vice President of Early Childhood Initiatives, Jennifer Landrum, at jennifer@coloradokids.org or (303) 839-1580.
