We have to anticipate that happening. Copyright 1998 Tri-City Herald. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The commission is seeking to examine the state's role in improving learning among children birth to 5 years old.
Research shows the first three years of life are critical to brain development.
Without the proper stimulation, a child's brain does not make the connections necessary for later learning. Their experiences between birth and kindergarten will influence the rest of their life. Locke and Gates, wife of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, are traveling the state to gather comments about what works, what doesn't and what should be tried. Participants at Tuesday's forum took the opportunity to brag about some local successes, such as the Benton-Franklin Developmental Center and the Three Rivers Children's Center. Yolanda Cortinas-Trout, a commission member and owner of a Walla Walla day care, said she isn't surprised by the concerns raised.