Understanding the Impact of Early Childhood Care and Education: Insights from Economists
In recent years, a growing body of research has underscored the critical influence of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECE) interventions on improving developmental outcomes for children and their families. A compelling synthesis of evidence exists that demonstrates the effectiveness of programs such as Head Start, the federally funded initiative designed to support preschool-aged children from low-income households. This federally supported program has become a cornerstone in understanding how targeted educational interventions can lead to positive life outcomes, a topic that is becoming increasingly relevant in contemporary policy debates.
This presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the prevailing economic perspectives on ECE and the implications these have for policy formulation and practical application. Moving beyond simplistic inquiries about the efficacy of preschool – encapsulated in the question, “Does preschool work?” – the discourse shifts to a nuanced examination of which programs are effective, for what demographics, in which contexts, and how they can be successfully implemented on a large scale. Such an examination is imperative for policymakers aiming to allocate resources efficiently and for educators striving to enhance the quality of early learning environments.
Leading this critical discussion is Chloe Gibbs, a senior economist at the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research. Gibbs’ expertise lies at the intersection of educational policy and economic analysis, particularly concerning investments in early childhood programs. In her role, she directs the Early Childhood Policy Lab at the University of Notre Dame’s Institute for Educational Initiatives, where she engages in impactful research that links public investments in education to tangible outcomes in children’s development, family wellbeing, and community health.
In 2022-2023, Gibbs served as a senior economist at the White House within the President’s Council of Economic Advisers, focusing extensively on child and family policy. During her tenure, she conducted in-depth analyses of critical issues such as child care accessibility, affordability, work-family policies, and the employment landscape for women. Her academic credentials include a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy, and her research has garnered significant recognition, being cited in the Economic Report of the President as well as featured in major media outlets such as National Public Radio, Newsweek, and The Washington Post.
As conversations around ECE continue to evolve, Gibbs’ insights and research could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of educational policy, particularly in addressing disparities and enhancing early childhood programs that cater to the needs of diverse populations. Ultimately, the dialogue she fosters is not merely academic; it is a crucial component in crafting policies that impact the lives of countless families across the nation.
