I-LABS research shows that the first five years of life have a lasting impact on how well children do in school and in life. At the same time, we know that much of the “achievement gap” for children entering school is due to a gap in their preparation. This gap occurs during a child’s first 2,000 days leading up to school. Through research and education we hope to reduce that gap. Our goal is to contribute to a growing movement to help all children reach their full potential.
To achieve this end, we are committed to sharing the latest research on early learning with caregivers, educators and policymakers. Research can help leaders create informed policies to support quality childcare and education. It can enrich how parents and caregivers interact with children. Research can also inform childcare practices, leading to improved early learning environments. By improving early learning environments we hope to decrease childhood risk factors. In turn, we can reduce later difficulties or delays.
In these modules, we aim to make research and practical information about early learning accessible to everyone. We hope the modules inform how you support and engage with young children.