Early childhood education plays a crucial role in shaping our nation’s future. From the moment a child is born, they are constantly learning and developing. The earliest years, from birth to age five, are a critical window of opportunity for growth and development. Quality early childhood education programs during these formative years can have profound, long-lasting positive impacts on a child’s future as an adult.

Research has shown that children who participate in high-quality early childhood education programs are more likely to:

• • Succeed in school: They have better language skills, larger vocabularies, stronger reading and math abilities, and are more likely to graduate from high school and pursue higher education.
  • Thrive in the workforce: As adults, they are more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and have stable careers.
  • Lead healthier lives: They are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like substance abuse or criminal activity and have lower rates of chronic diseases like obesity and heart disease.

As a parent, you are their first teacher! You play a crucial role in your child’s early education. Everyday activities can be transformed into learning opportunities. Here are some strategies to incorporate into your routine:

• Read together every day: Even very young babies benefit from being read to. As your child grows, encourage their daily curiosity and comprehension by asking open-ended questions and discussing the story’s themes.
• Talk, sing, and play: Label objects and describe what you’re doing as you go about your day. Use songs and games to make learning fun!
• Explore the great outdoors: Spend time in nature, pointing out different plants, animals, and natural phenomena. This can spark a lifelong love of the environment.
• Count and measure: Incorporate math skills into daily tasks. Count steps, count out snacks, and measure ingredients while cooking.

These simple actions can lay a strong foundation for your child’s future success. The National Institute for Child Health and Development has more excellent resources and ideas for early childhood education at home!

Why is Quality Child Care Important?

Quality care is an essential component of a child’s early development and overall well-being. It provides a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow, while also promoting social, emotional, and cognitive development. Research has shown that children who receive quality child care are more likely to succeed academically and professionally later in life.

Key Benefits of Quality Child Care:

• • Boosts Your Child’s Learning: High-quality child care programs provide structured environment and activities that promote cognitive development, thinking skills, and opportunities for further growth.
  • Enhances Social Skills: Quality child care settings offer children the chance to interact with other children and adults, helping them learn vital social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and empathy.
  • School Readiness: High-quality programs use developmentally appropriate curricula to prepare children for school. This includes teaching the alphabet, colors, numbers, shapes, and even basic reading and math.
  • Structure, Routine, & Familiarity: Quality child care settings follow a regular schedule of structured activities like storytime, music, art, and outdoor play. This structure helps children feel secure and safe.
  • Health and Safety: High-quality child care programs are regulated and monitored by the Virginia Department of Education. These programs adhere to strict health and safety standards.
  • Peace of Mind for Parents: Knowing that your child is in a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment while you’re at work can help offer much needed peace of mind.

Choosing quality child care is an investment in your child’s future, and we want to help you make the best decision for your family.needs.PLEASE NOTE…Child Care Aware of Virginia provides referrals to child care providers and information about child care programs. We do not recommend, endorse, regulate, or monitor child care. Parents are encouraged to visit and interview providers before making a final decision about their child care.