The Power of Quality Childcare: Building Strong Foundations for Our Youngest Learners
- thrivingfamiliesal
- May 20
- 3 min read
Every child deserves the best start in life, and both family support and quality childcare play a crucial role in that journey. The early years are a time of incredible growth and potential. By supporting high-quality childhood programs, we’re not only helping children thrive today, but we are investing in a stronger, more successful future for our communities.
While childcare, family support, and preschool are all cornerstones for early learning, we are going to focus on the importance of quality childcare settings in this article.
In 2022, more than 50% of children under the age of 5 were enrolled in childcare or preschool programs, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. This reflects the vital role early learning environments play in supporting families and giving children the developmental boost they need during their most formative years.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of 5. This means early experiences, like those provided by caregivers at home and in quality childcare settings, have a powerful and lasting effect on a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth.
Why Quality Matters: Impact on School Readiness and Lifelong Success
Research consistently shows that children who attend high-quality childcare programs versus lower-quality programs are more likely to:
Develop strong language skills
Show higher cognitive function
Be prepared for school
Demonstrate positive social behaviors under the age of 3
Be happier and more emotionally resilient overall
While these early advantages from quality childcare versus lower-quality childcare provide a strong foundation for school readiness, academic achievement, better health outcomes, and future career success, they do not replace the essential role of family. Research continues to show that the strength of the parent-child relationship and family dynamics has an even greater influence on a child’s overall development than the specific type of childcare arrangement. However, knowing that childcare is often needed, it is vital to choose a high-quality provider.
What Makes Childcare “High-Quality”?
Quality childcare isn’t defined by a single feature, but rather a combination of indicators that work together to nurture children’s development in safe, responsive, and enriching environments. Key indicators include:
Small group sizes that allow for individualized attention
Low staff turnover ensures consistent relationships
Highly trained and educated staff in child development or early childhood education
A safe, clean, and healthy environment that promotes active exploration
Ongoing developmental screenings and support for meeting milestones
Positive caregiving, warm, responsive interactions between providers and children
Strong family engagement and communication between home and childcare
Rich, hands-on learning opportunities that encourage curiosity and skill-building
These factors not only support children's learning but also promote emotional security and overall well-being, which are key ingredients for lifelong success.
Looking Ahead: Our Collective Role
Ensuring access to quality childcare is a shared responsibility, one that requires ongoing investment, strong advocacy, and meaningful collaboration among families, educators, community organizations, and policymakers. High-quality early learning environments can make a lasting impact, but they are most effective when they work in harmony with the family. At the heart of every child’s development is a nurturing home, loving relationships, and consistent emotional support.
As we move forward in our mission to support young children and their families, we invite you to be part of this important work. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or advocate, your commitment helps create a stronger, more resilient future for every child. Together, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to thrive at home, in care, and beyond. Let’s continue to work together to ensure our community’s children are safe, supported, and ready to soar.
The NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development
When it comes to child care and early learning, quality matters. By the age of 5, a child’s brain is already 90% developed. Research shows that children who participate in high-quality early childhood programs are better.
The Why Quality Matters In Early Child Care: AAP Policy Explained.
Currently, more than half of children under 5 in the United States regularly attend some type of out-of-home child care or preschool program. These children's experiences in these settings will affect their future lives. For many families, unfortunately, high-quality early education and child care is not available or affordable.
Quality Child Care: Teacher-Child Interactions
Quality child care helps children learn, grow, and thrive. Teacher-child interactions that are stimulating and nurturing are an essential part of quality early learning programs. Check out our 1-minute video for what to look for.
Quality Matters In Child Care
When it comes to child care and early learning, quality matters. By the age of 5, a child’s brain is already 90% developed. Research shows that children who participate in high-quality early childhood programs are better.
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