New CAP report on Early Learning and Literacy

The Center for American Progress (CAP) recently released a report highlighting the need for partnership between early childhood and K-12 systems to address declining literacy rates in children. Its recommendations are reinforced by new findings from NWEA, the nonprofit educational research and assessment organization, which show that kindergarteners who are behind in reading are unlikely to catch up to their peers. Together, these reports highlight the value of investing in quality early learning experiences to support later literacy outcomes.

The decline in reading scores over the past decade underscores the importance of ensuring children have access to quality early learning experiences before they enter kindergarten. The foundations for literacy and language development begin at birth, and child care and early childhood education programs can help build the foundational literacy skills children need to succeed in kindergarten and lay the groundwork for reading achievement in K–12 education. 

Key Takeaways from CAP:

• Research shows that the path to literacy begins during the first few years of a child’s life. Children can develop the building blocks of literacy—like oral language, phonological awareness and print knowledge— far before they enter kindergarten. 
• Early childhood and K-12 education systems should work collaboratively to ensure strong transitions and build foundations for literacy scores down the line. 
• Early intervention services through IDEA Part C and an aligned partnership between early childhood and K-12 systems are especially important for children with disabilities. 
• Federal early learning programs such as Head Start help children gain the skills they need to successfully transition to K-12 education. 
• Potential policy solutions include: guaranteeing universal access to early learning programs, aligning birth-to-5 standards, and implementing universal screening.  

Bottom Line: 

CAP’s report reinforces the importance of early learning in literacy development and offers multiple ways that policymakers can strengthen the connection between early childhood and K-12 systems. Quality early learning programs like Head Start can help build a foundation for children’s language and literacy skills and support academic success in kindergarten and beyond. Federal investments in key early learning programs can help more children enter school prepared to succeed. 

More Resources:

• 2026 Early Head Start and Head Start 
• Head Start Program Core Elements
• New Research Demonstrates the Importance of Early Learning — and What Comes After
• Federal Investments: The Foundation for Early Learning and Care Programs