Early Childhood

When very young children don't get the love and care they need, the damage can be extensive and long-lasting. Michigan's Children believes that the key to our state's success is family, community and public investments in all children -- from the cradle to a career that can support the next generation of strong families, and help Michigan's economy rebound and thrive.

The first, and most critical, window of opportunity is during the earliest years before the age of 6. Scientists have documented that children's experiences during the earliest years of life alter the very architecture of their brains in ways that permanently affect their health, learning and development. In fact, between 80 and 90 percent of the "wiring" of the brain takes place by the time a child enters kindergarten. Children are born ready to learn and actually crave the positive stimulation that let's them do so.

Yet, despite increasing recognition of the importance of early childhood, state investments in early childhood education and family supports have been stagnant or reduced, leaving Michigan's youngest children at risk, and jeopardizing the next generation of leaders and workers.

For example:

• One of every five Michigan children under the age of six lives in poverty
• Young children are at higher risk of child abuse and neglect, and more likely to be living in foster care
• Too many of the state's children do not have access to the high quality preschool programs that have been shown to improve school success
• Thousands of Michigan children are in child care settings of unknown quality and safety

• Too many parents do not have the tools to be their children's first and best teachers

Now is the time to grow the workforce of tomorrow by ensuring our children are ready to learn!