These differences held true for children from a range of family backgrounds. 6 Children are at risk of school failure who participate in quality child care programs demonstrate improved math and social skills in school. Unfortunately, too many children are denied the opportunity to participate in quality programs. Despite the importance of a strong early start, national studies indicate major gaps in the affordability and quality of child care and early learning opportunities for young children. This disparity, which has held steady since the early 1990's, ensures that many children from low-income households miss out on valuable opportunities to learn.
Parents struggle to find and afford quality programs for their children.
Caught between rent, child care, and food, low-income families are squeezed out of the quality early learning experiences their children need. A Comprehensive Learning Strategy for America's Children. Carnegie Corporation, page 17. Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experience of Young American Children. Children's Environment and Behavior, Reading and Telling Stories to Young Children.