Child Impact
Early Childhood Education lays the groundwork for academic success, emotional well-being, and social stability.
The Benefits of Early Childhood Education
Cognitive Development
Language and Literacy: Engaging children in conversations, reading, and interactive play fosters language skills. Children exposed to a rich language environment show greater literacy skills by the time they enter school.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Play-based learning helps children develop the cognitive flexibility to solve problems, use creativity, and explore cause-and-effect relationships.
Emotional & Social Development
Self-Regulation: Early experiences teach children how to manage emotions and behavior. Secure, responsive relationships with caregivers help them build resilience and cope with stress.
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Social Skills: Interaction with peers during play fosters important social skills, such as empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
Brain Development
90% of Brain Growth: By age 6, a child’s brain is already about 90% of its adult size, making early experiences crucial in shaping brain architecture.
Neural Connections: Early interactions, including play and communication, strengthen neural connections, especially in areas related to language, social skills, and emotional regulation.
Long-term Benefits
School Readiness: High-quality early childhood experiences are linked to better school performance, higher graduation rates, and greater economic productivity later in life.
Reduced Behavioral Problems: Children who engage in structured play and have strong relationships with caregivers tend to show fewer behavioral problems, both in childhood and adulthood.
Health and Well-being: Positive early experiences also contribute to better mental and physical health outcomes in the long term
The Museum's Impact
on a Child
Critical Cognitive Development
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The museum plays a crucial role in providing hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for young children during their most critical years of brain development (birth to age six). Research shows that these formative experiences shape cognitive, social, and emotional development, helping to prepare children for success in school and life.
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Bridging the Gap
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Children from diverse backgrounds, especially those from underserved communities, may not have access to high-quality early childhood education. The museum offers an inclusive, accessible space where all children can benefit from creative play and educational programs, helping to close the achievement gap.
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Access to STEAM
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Many children’s museums offer programs focused on science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and the arts, exposing young minds to critical areas of learning through interactive, play-based exhibits. These experiences can spark a lifelong love of learning and creativity.
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Investing in Early Childhood Education is an investment in a brighter future for everyone.
Currently, only 23% of children have access to Early childhood Development education across Jackson County, 24% in Josephine County.
Help us provide access to more children across our region to early childhood development.