Early Childhood Development & Learning
EDC works to expand and enhance early learning by designing, studying, supporting, and scaling effective programs.
We understand that the foundation for lifelong learning is built in early childhood. Children develop vital skills from birth to age eight that shape their future academic success and well-being. Our early childhood development initiatives are designed to strengthen and unify learning systems, ensuring a seamless transition from pre-K to Grade 3 education.
Our early childhood experts are committed to improving early learning outcomes in key areas like science, math, and literacy, to ensure children thrive in and beyond school. Our approach emphasizes family engagement and workforce development to help families, educators, and communities create environments that nurture curiosity, skill development, and foundational learning to support future success. Our First 10 initiative draws on the power of school-community partnerships to improve outcomes for children and families.
Nationwide, we lead R&D, research, and evaluation studies to advance knowledge of effective strategies to enhance learning in early childhood education settings, at home, and in the community. Recent research findings spotlight how playing games improves early math learning, the benefits of engaging young children in exploring science and data science, and how children’s media can help families and teachers promote school readiness.
