It's a big year for early learning initiatives, says NCSL's resident expert Steffanie Clothier in the latest Buzz at State Legislatures podcast (10:32).
Economics and neuroscience converge when it comes to early learning, Clothier says. Economic studies have shown that programs targeting kids from birth to 5 years old are a good investment. And science says fundamental skills like motivation and persistence develop before kids even start school.
According to Clothier's recent legislative update, 40 states are considering early learning bills this year. Six of the ten states without early learning programs are looking into setting them up.
Activities states are looking into in 2007 fall into several categories. Some states, including California, Florida, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri and North Dakota, are eyeing quality rating systems, which help parents determine the best places to send their children for daycare, pre-school and other early learning programs.
States are also expanding funding for a variety of early learning programs including pre-kindergarten. New York, Arkansas, Illinois, Connecticut, Oregon and Pennsylvania fall into that category.
Programs that support parents are getting attention in Hawaii, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Texas and Washington. Some states are also considering ways to improve training of teachers and other childcare providers.
Listen to the whole conversation with NCSL early education expert Steffanie Clothier. (10:32)
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