For children

Quality care and education in the early years helps children to flourish and make the most of their lives:

• The quality of young children's care and early learning is vital to their happiness and well-being.
•  Quality early care and education has a large, positive impact on children’s development.
• The benefits last a lifetime.

The earliest life experiences are critical in the development of the human brain. And they are critical in forming the skills and dispositions that give children firm foundations on which they can build their lives. 

The benefits to children of quality care and education in their early years are both widespread and long-lasting. While the benefits are greatest for disadvantaged children, all children benefit.

Quality is crucial. Scientific evidence shows that early care and education only has strong developmental benefits where it is of sufficient quality.

For more on why quality care and education matters for young children, and references to research evidence, see Start Strong’s leaflet Why Early Care and Education?