Business leaders in Monterey, California, understand that early childhood investments are a critical solution for ensuring their state has a skilled workforce. Professor Heckman explains the importance of the early years—and that skills beget skills.
Related Resources
Cognitive Skills Are Not Enough Watch Video
This video captures a 2010 presentation Professor Heckman made in Chicago to business leaders and policymakers. Professor Heckman argues that developing early social and emotional skills is critical for creating a productive adult—countering the argument that cognitive skills matter most. An excerpt of his speech is followed by testimonials from business leaders and local policymakers…
Lacking Character, American Education Fails the Test View Summary
In this three-page brief, Professor Heckman argues that what we value and measure in American education doesn’t measure up to the true drivers of human and social success. Character skills often matter more than cognitive skills and calls for educating the whole child, from early learning through young adulthood. For decades, there has been a…
Invest in Early Childhood Development: Reduce Deficits, Strengthen the Economy View Summary
In this two-page summary document, Professor Heckman argues that the best way to reduce deficits is to invest in quality early childhood development for disadvantaged children. It creates better education, health, social and economic outcomes that increase revenue and reduce the need for costly social spending. “The highest rate of return in early childhood development…
Early Childhood Education Has a High Rate of Return Watch Video
A video excerpt of a 2010 speech Professor Heckman gave to business leaders and policymakers in Chicago. He states that quality early childhood education programs for disadvantaged children have high rates of return and warrant public investment. His presentation is followed by testimonials from business leaders and policymakers who talk about the value they see…