It may seem as though preschool only benefits parents and families with young children, but the truth is, when kids receive quality early childhood education, everyone benefits.

There are many studies, dating as far back as the 1960s, about how preschool and early education affects a child throughout their life. Children that are enrolled in preschool have a much better chance at succeeding later in life than those who miss out on preschool.

Our Head Start and Early Head Start programs include early childhood education that allows children to learn language, literacy skills and early math and science concepts. Through interaction with teachers and planned and spontaneous instruction and play with other children, our students develop the necessary social and emotional tools to succeed.

But I Don’t Have Children. How Does Head Start Help Me?

Enrolling children in preschool programs like Head Start and investing in the funding of these programs creates healthy communities, which we all benefit from.

One study found that at-risk children who did not attend programs like pre-kindergarten, Early Head Start or Head Start were 85% more likely to have been sentenced to prison or jail by age 40.

Louisiana has not only the highest incarceration rate in the country, but also the highest incarceration rate per capita in the world. The reasons for this are numerous, but it is proven that investing in early childhood education is one way to prevent incarceration later in life.

Long-term studies have also shown that early childhood education can increase how much a person earns later in life. Preschool programs also reduce the need for remedial education later on, which lowers the cost of public schools.

Breaking the cycle of poverty begins with early childhood education. Reducing crime and keeping people out of jail saves taxpayers money, and everyone benefits from a safer community. Even if you never plan to have children, preschool has an impact that extends to everyone.

Learn More and Support Our Head Start Programs

If you want to take advantage of our early childhood education programs, learn more about our New Orleans Head Start locations and enrollment requirements.

If you are a member of the community who wants to see all children have a chance at a better life, donate today.