Topic: Early Learning and Family Support

Human Development is Economic Development View Presentation

A 2016, 22-slide presentation by Professor Heckman to the Larger Community Foundations Conference. This presentation offers evidence-based research to support bringing together stakeholders from across health, education, economic development, criminal justice and political parties to reduce inequality, increase human capital and foster economic vitality.

The Dynamics of Capability Formation Presentation View Presentation

Professor Heckman was invited to speak at the HDCA 2015 Conference as the keynote speaker for the Amartya Sen Lecture. The presentation offered recent research on the economics of creating flourishing lives, discussing the importance of cognitive skills, character skills and health.

Lessons from Sesame Street View Statement

A recent study, Early Childhood Education by MOOC: Lessons from Sesame Street by Melissa Kearney and Phillip Levine, has been generating interest and, unfortunately, generalized comparisons with other early childhood programs. As noted by the authors, the study looks at the effects of access to Sesame Street, not at the value of Sesame Street versus…

A Scaffolding of Support: 8 Guiding Principles View Summary

Here are outline eight guiding principles for effective investments in early childhood development that promote positive social and economic outcomes by building a “scaffolding of support” around disadvantaged young children and their families. When Professor Heckman presents his research on the economics of early childhood to policymakers and advocates, one question is often asked: “If…

2015 Water Cooler Conference Presentation Watch Video

On March 23, 2015, Professor Heckman gave the keynote address at the annual California Early Learning Water Cooler Conference, hosted by the Advancement Project. Drawing on new and longitudinal research, Professor Heckman made the case for refocusing public policy on cost-efficient evidence-based investments in young children and families to reap significant social and economic benefits,…