Why the First 2,000 Days of Your Child’s Life Are the Most Crucial

Why does early childhood education matter? For a few reasons, including the fact that a child’s brain develops faster from birth to age 5 than at any other time in their life. Because of this, inequalities and challenges for many children begin early in their lives. 

At One Place, we offer a range of programming and initiatives that serve children and strengthen family connections. When high-quality early childhood education programming is available for children, their entire lives will change for the better. 

Why Early Childhood Programs Work 

Research has proven that early childhood education programs enable children to overcome challenges and even break the cycle of poverty for multiple generations. Two powerful studies in particular have proven the importance of these programs: the Perry Project and the Abecedarian Project. 

• The Perry Project 

The Perry Project, conducted from 1962–1967, established the lasting human and financial value of early childhood education. The study found that at the age of 40, the participants who’d experienced the preschool program: 

• • Had fewer teenager pregnancies
  • Were more likely to have graduated from high school 
  • Were more likely to hold a job and have higher earnings 
  • Committed fewer crimes 
  • Owned their own home and car
    
    
• The Abecedarian Project

In 1972, the Abecedarian Project provided early childhood education within a high-quality child care setting until age 5 for half of the children involved. The study discovered that early childhood participants had significantly more years of education by age 30 than individuals in the control group; additionally, Abecedarian participants were more likely to have been consistently employed and six times less likely to have received public assistance. 

How You Can Support Your Child’s Growth 

Many families in Onslow County and beyond lack access to quality early childhood education and care. Every day, we work to bridge this gap for families in our community and provide high-quality early childhood education opportunities. 

• Infant & Toddler Programs 

You are your child’s first, and most important, teacher. By partnering with Early Head Start during the first three years of your child’s life you will receive with the tools you need to nurture your child’s development and strengthen your bond. 

Early Head Start encourages the growth and development of infants and toddlers through a strong foundation of social-emotional competence for lifelong learning. Early Head Start is available for pregnant mothers, infants, and toddlers until the age of three. 

Learn more here. 

• Preschool Programs

If your child will be 3 or 4 years old by August 31st, apply for one of our preschool programs today! We offer two preschool programs—North Carolina Pre-K and Three School—at no cost to eligible families in Onslow County. 

Our programs feature: 

• High-quality child care centers 
• Small class sizes
• Family support regarding health, nutrition, developmental screening, and placement for children with special needs 
• Kindergarten transition coordination to ensure your child can successfully start school   

Learn more here. 

• Need additional help?

If you’re searching for a high-quality child care provider that fits your family’s needs, our team is here to help you navigate your options and select a safe, trustworthy, and nurturing program for your child. 

Simply text “Child” to (910) 333-0608 and our team will reach out to you and start the referral process. 

Learn more here.