What Do You Know About Early Childhood Education?

Early childhood education (ECE) is more than just daycare—it’s a structured, purposeful approach to supporting a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Understanding the role it plays can help parents make informed choices that shape their child’s future success.

Why Early Childhood Education Matters

Brain Development Happens Early

By age five, a child’s brain has developed up to 90% of its adult size. This rapid development means that early experiences—whether positive or negative—have a lasting impact. A high-quality ECE program leverages this critical period through stimulating activities that promote language, motor skills, memory, and attention.

Academic Readiness Starts Before Kindergarten

Children enrolled in strong preschool programs show stronger early literacy and numeracy skills. They learn to identify letters, understand sounds, and recognize patterns—all foundational skills that make the transition to elementary school smoother and more successful.

Social-Emotional Growth Is Just as Important

Preschool is where children first learn how to cooperate, resolve conflict, follow rules, and practice empathy. These social-emotional lessons are taught through peer interactions, group play, and guided conversations led by caring educators. This helps children regulate emotions and build friendships.

What Makes a Preschool Program High-Quality?

Skilled, Nurturing Educators

The most effective programs have teachers trained in early childhood development. They understand how to create supportive, inclusive environments and tailor instruction to each child’s learning style and developmental needs.

Balanced Curriculum

Play-based learning, arts integration, and structured academic activities should all be present. Children might learn math through sorting blocks, develop reading readiness through storytelling, and strengthen motor skills through dancing or painting.

Focus on the Whole Child

High-quality programs don't just focus on academics. They support physical growth, emotional stability, creativity, and social development—recognizing that all of these are interconnected.

Long-Term Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Higher Academic Achievement

Studies show that children who attend preschool are more likely to graduate from high school, perform well in college, and pursue successful careers.

Improved Behavior and Social Integration

Children from ECE programs tend to have fewer behavioral issues, stronger self-control, and better problem-solving abilities—skills that carry over into adolescence and adulthood.

Economic and Societal Returns

For every dollar invested in high-quality early education, research suggests a return of up to $7 through reduced need for remedial education, lower incarceration rates, and higher lifetime earnings.

Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?

Ideal Ages to Start

Most experts recommend starting preschool between ages 2–4. At this stage, children are highly receptive to language, routines, social learning, and structured play.

Parent Involvement Is Key

Strong communication between educators and families helps reinforce learning and provides children with a stable, consistent support system. Look for programs that invite family participation and share regular updates.

Conclusion: Investing in Their Future Starts Now

Early childhood education is one of the most important investments a parent can make in a child’s future. From developing a love for learning to forming the foundation of emotional intelligence, a great preschool program nurtures every part of a child’s development. Whether your child is shy or outgoing, curious or cautious, the right program meets them where they are and helps them grow.

To explore a creative, joyful, and inclusive preschool experience in Sandy, Utah, schedule a tour at Ladu Preschool for the Arts today.