Early Education as Vital Social Infrastructure
Lucie Stephens Like healthcare, transport, or the broader education system, early education is essential for the functioning of society and the economy. Research, such as the Royal Foundation’s “Shaping Us” campaign, highlights that the first five years of life are crucial for brain development, with 80% of brain growth occurring in the first 1,001 days. High-quality early years provision supports children during their most critical developmental period. Quality early education contributes significantly to a child’s cognitive, physical, and emotional development. It also provides parents with tools to support their children’s learning and...