President Robert Bruininks and Scott McConnell, professor of educational psychology and Fesler-Lampert Chair of Urban and Regional Affairs, describe how “Research provides good answers to legislators’ early-education questions” in a recent MinnPost article. Arguing that some of the best research on early education is produced in Minnesota, Bruininks and McConnell, director of community engagement in the Center for Early Education and Development, state that “early experiences can and do matter for children with special needs and developmental disabilities, as well as children who are ‘just a little behind’ in learning important language, motor, and cognitive skills.” Noting a wealth of Minnesota research to support their opinions, they point out that children who receive high-quality early care and education enter kindergarten with better skills and preparation.
Bruininks and McConnell appeal to legislators and people across the state to recognize the important research findings available and to work with educators to use this information in support of investments in early care and education programs that work.