When we think about the future of our society, safer neighborhoods, a stronger economy, and more equitable opportunities—it might be surprising to learn that one of the most effective places to start is with toddlers and preschoolers. Yet, that’s exactly what economist Dr. James Heckman demonstrates through his research, famously summed up in what’s now known as the Heckman Equation.
“The kids who were in the program are much less likely to commit crimes, less likely to drop out of school, and more likely to have high wages.” — Dr. James Heckman
I’ve always known the first five years of life are foundational. But Dr. Heckman’s research reframed early childhood education not just as something important for individual development, but as a strategy for long-term societal improvement. High-quality ECE (Early Childhood Education) programs aren’t just good, they’re transformative.
The Science Behind the Heckman Equation
The Heckman Equation is a formula that captures the return on investment in early childhood development. Dr. Heckman, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, found that the earlier we invest in children’s education and development, the greater the return—up to 13% per year in improved education, health, and economic outcomes.
Early investments build skills that lead to better life outcomes. These include:
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Improved school readiness
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Stronger cognitive and social-emotional skills
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Higher graduation rates
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Lower involvement with the criminal justice system
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Increased employment and earnings in adulthood
Why Quality Matters
It’s not just about offering daycare, it’s about creating environments where children are nurtured, taught, and respected. High-quality ECE programs include:
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Low teacher-child ratios
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Trained, well-compensated educators
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Evidence-based curriculum
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Family engagement
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Culturally responsive care
Such programs support children’s cognitive and emotional development while also helping parents stay in the workforce. And the benefits ripple outward: healthier communities, reduced spending on social services, and a stronger future workforce.
Heckman’s research is that ECE isn’t just a gift to the child, it’s an investment in all of us. It strengthens families, reduces inequality, and builds stronger communities. For every dollar spent on high-quality early childhood programs, society sees a significant return in reduced crime, higher productivity, and improved public health.
We often think change happens through big policies or dramatic action. But sometimes, the most profound impact starts small, in a preschool classroom, on a play mat, or during story time with a caring adult. When we support young children today, we create the conditions for a better tomorrow.
References:
Heckman, J. J. (n.d.). The Heckman Equation. Retrieved from https://heckmanequation.org
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). (2020). Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth Through Age 8 (3rd ed.).
Zero to Three. (n.d.). Early Development Resources. Retrieved from https://www.zerotothree.org
First 5 California. (n.d.). Investing in Early Learning. Retrieved from https://www.first5california.com
