Over the past number of years, a wealth of compelling economic research has illuminated the staggering return on investment ($4-$17 for every dollar spent) that comes from nurturing our youngest citizens during their first five years of life (especially birth-age3). Yet, despite this vital evidence, our commitment to making children a national/state priority remains woefully inadequate. Alarmingly, when state budgets tighten, children in this crucial age group are often the first victims of funding cuts.
The first five years of a child’s life are not merely formative – they are transformative. During this period, a child’s brain undergoes remarkable growth, with a staggering 85% of its core structure developed by age four. This early development lays the groundwork for a child’s future health, academic achievement, vocational pathways, and emotional resilience.
Yet, paradoxically, this critical phase of growth receives the least public investment. Nationally, a mere 10% of our educational spending is allocated to children aged four and under. This is not only shortsighted; it’s a missed opportunity with profound implications for our society.
As an example, NYS has so long neglected the Early Intervention Program for children – birth to 3 years, that there are no longer enough providers or agencies providing this most important service to meet the needs of children and families- as they have had to stop providing services due to inadequate funding. Today in NYS, massive waiting lists often leave children having to go without evaluation and services until they reach school age. This is a terrible waste of the most important cognitive development years in a child’s life!
Consider something as basic as the consequences when young children lack essential nutrition during pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood. The ramifications for brain development can be devastating and enduring. Now think about developmental delays, positive emotional growth, a vast array neurodiversity needs and early learning preparation- and the lack of service provision at this stage of life becomes so disadvantageous.
An example of the consequences of neglect at this early age are easily seen in speech and language development. By the age of two, children who are engaged in regular conversation can learn nearly 300 more words than their peers who are not spoken to as often. Language development, a cornerstone of future literacy and learning, begins here. Failing to identify and treat speech delays can simply be a pathway to more expensive Special Education interventions down the road- not to
mention the academic frustrations and failures that older children are today experiencing with literacy.
Furthermore, children who experience sensitive and responsive care in their first year are more likely to form healthy emotional attachments and develop the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges.
When we objectively examine these facts, it becomes abundantly clear: investing in Early Intervention, and early childhood education and care is not just a moral imperative; it is an astute economic strategy. By ensuring that every child from birth to age five receives the health, educational and therapeutic support they deserve, we are not merely nurturing individuals; we are fostering a stronger, more prosperous society for all.
Let’s unite in advocating for the future of our children – and, by extension, the future of our state and nation. Investing in early childhood education and Early Intervention, is an investment in a brighter tomorrow.
Please call/email your NYS Assembly and Senate representatives, and especially Gov. Hochul. Thank them for some of the positive movements they are making in expanding early childhood education and day care, but advocate with them not to let our youngest, most vulnerable children be forgotten any longer. Early Intervention services can change a child’s developmental path and improve outcomes for children, families, and communities.
Ask them to invest more in the Early Intervention Program. Together, we can make this a priority that benefits us all.
Early Intervention services can change a child’s developmental path and improve outcomes for children, families, and communities.
To further explore why Early Intervention matters for children and families across Western New York, we invite you to read our companion article detailing the science, impact, and urgency behind these services. Read: Our Kids Can’t Wait: Why Early Intervention in New York Must Be Strengthened Now – Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center
Be Well,
Joe Cozzo
President/CEO
