HKS Authors

See citation below for complete author information.

Abstract

Early childhood is the most critical time in human development. Experiences during this stage of life can have a long-lasting impact on an individual’s health, wellbeing, academic success, and social adjustment. Policy decisions that promote healthy early childhood development will not only have lasting impact on the health and wellbeing of our citizens, but also on the vibrancy of our civic and economic life, likely leading to significant return on investment and mid- to long-term cost savings. By supporting a continuum of care for young children and their families that includes promotion, prevention, education, early identification, intervention and treatment, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can ensure a healthy, productive society and help reduce significant and costly negative social and health outcomes for our citizens.

Citation

Franks, Robert, Matthew Peccoraro, Jayne Singer, and Julie Boatright Wilson. "Early Childhood Development: Implications for Policy, Systems and Practice." Judge Baker Children's Center, 2017.