Early childhood education has widespread and long lasting benefits

Summary: Education and skills development unlock the potential of individuals and shapes the quality of their lives. Learning takes place in all stages of life, and the biggest impact happens early in life. While it is well acknowledged that primary, secondary and post-secondary schooling develops and enhances key life skills and abilities, the learning that occurs during the first few years of life can have important, longlasting effects that are often underestimated. There is a great deal of literature showing overwhelming benefits of high-quality, early childhood education - gains not only for children, but for parents and the economy as a whole.