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Help Our Youngest Learners Thrive

More than one million new neural connections are formed every second in the first few years of life.

 

Quality Early Childhood Programs Work

With young brains developing so fast, a child’s first five years are immensely important, making the difference between a bright future and a lifetime of obstacles. And yet, nearly 5 million children live in under-resourced communities in the U.S. and often do not have access to high-quality early learning programs—the types of programs that are proven to:

  • Help children enter kindergarten with the skills needed to succeed in school
  • Increase high school graduation rates and college attendance
  • Increase wages as an adult
  • Reduce long-term social costs for special education, health and other remediation costs

That’s why Start Early is committed to providing meaningful early learning experiences that help our youngest learners thrive and empower their parents.

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What We Do

Our comprehensive approach to early learning and care applies our deep expertise in program, policy and research so that children, families and educators can thrive.

Our Approach

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Early Learning Programs

Providing quality early learning and care to children and families.

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Early Learning Programs

We work on-the-ground in Chicago and partner with others to bring our lessons learned to children and families nationwide.

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Professional Development

Ensuring early childhood professionals have the training they need.

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Professional Development

Our training programs help early childhood professionals build practices that transform teaching and learning for all children.

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Research

Conducting research and evaluation to validate and optimize our work.

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Research

Our research informs every aspect of our work, from the classroom to policy recommendations and training programs.

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Policy & Advocacy

Promoting robust policies and programs that put families first.

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Policy & Advocacy

For nearly 40 years, we have helped policymakers understand the benefits of and the science behind early childhood development.

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Connecting Communities

Fostering collaboration to accelerate learning and impact.

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Connecting Communities

We value the power of partnerships and recognize we are stronger when we share and learn from one another.  

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Our Impact in Action

Learn more about how we’re supporting children, families, early childhood professionals and others as we improve the state of early learning in America.

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Take Action

Raise your voice and encourage lawmakers to prioritize early learning and care at the local, state and federal level.

Make an Impact

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Support Our Work

Together, when we start early, we can close the opportunity gap and ensure every child has a chance to reach their full potential.

Give Now

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Our Impact

Learn more about how we are supporting children, families and early childhood professionals as we improve the state of early learning in America.

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Stay Connected

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