Dear editor,
Why invest in early care and education? Investing in early child care helps the economy, keeps families working and helps prepare our children's future in education and employment.
Data shows that the greatest challenges facing our country — from school drop out rates, to crime and rising health care costs to the necessity of competing in the world marketplace — has to be met by focusing on the development of all our children, beginning at birth.
It is a fact that the first five years are critical in our children's lives, with approximately 85 percent of brain development occurring during this time.
Working parents need safe, reliable and affordable child care. Many depend on family or friends to watch their children while they work.
It has been shown that children in home care may not receive educational and social opportunities that state-regulated child care centers offer.
I'm proud to say I have worked in early child care for the last 18 years and continue to enjoy teaching and watching our children grow into fine prospering young adults.
Early child care centers are definitely a wise investment, and I am proud that our area has some of the best facilities around.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: LETTER: Why investment in early child care is important