Does pre-K work?

By Katharine B. Stevens and Elizabeth English of AEI.

"The research on ten early childhood programs — and what it tells us.

• Widely cited early childhood programs vary greatly in both design and results. The research on these programs shows neither that “pre-K works” not that it doesn’t; rather, it shows that some early childhood programs yield particular outcomes, sometimes, for some children.
• Both the relevance and rigor of early childhood research is considerably weaker than many realize. A stronger knowledge base is urgently needed around the core policy question: What are the most effective early interventions for improving disadvantaged children’s lives?
• Our current knowledge is insufficient to justify a large expansion of pre-K as the best path forward. Instead, policymakers should focus on advancing rigorous research, high-quality child care, and voluntary home visiting programs.

Read the related report:

• Does pre-K work? The research on ten early childhood programs—and what it tells us

Overview of Program Characteristics

For more information, see AEI’s recent report, “Does Pre-K Work? The Research on Ten Early Childhood Programs—And What It Tells Us,” by Katharine B. Stevens and Elizabeth English.


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