Research Summary: Perry Preschool and Character Skill Development View Summary

This two-page research summary provides proof that social and emotional development in early childhood development drives better education, health, social and economic outcomes. Heckman highlights the influence that character skills have on school, career and life success, and provides guidance for how advocates and policymakers can use the research to promote effective social and economic change.…

Understanding the Mechanisms through Which an Influential Early Childhood Program Boosted Adult Outcomes View Academic Paper

Published in October 2013, research from Professor Heckman, Rodrigo Pinto (University of Chicago) and Peter Savelyev (Vanderbilt University) revealed that non-cognitive skill development, not IQ enhancement, is the primary factor underlying the success of high-quality early childhood education. A summary of the research findings and their implications can be found here.

Letter to the Budget Conference Committee View Statement

In October 2013, Professor Heckman sent a letter to the congressional conference committee tasked with negotiating a budget deal by mid-December, urging the conferees to consider smart investments in early childhood development programs as part of their budget plan. He attached a letter he sent in the fall of 2011 to the Joint Select Committee…

Business Leader Training Deck View Presentation

This presentation was created by The Heckman Equation as a resource for business leaders and early childhood education advocates. It was presented at the 2013 Pennsylvania Economic Summit on Early Childhood Investment by Rich Neimand.

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…

Prevent the Achievement Gap Watch Video

The basic skills needed for success are formed before children enter school. Investing early helps to prevent the achievement gap, and investing in our most disadvantaged children provides the greatest returns. Professor Heckman advocates for investments in prevention—not remediation.