Cutting Funds for Preschool might be Shortsighted

A majority of children in America spend a considerable portion of their day under the care of someone else other than their parent. This has proven benefits for both the parents and the children. For most children from low-income families, the pre-K program developed by the government is perhaps the only place a child gets a decent snack. The educational part of the program is,
however, mediocre considering the budget cuts caused by the recent recession. The preschool program takes care of the child allowing the parents to work and pay the bills. The program also reduces the number of children likely to experience neglect or abuse. The fitted routine for the child provide a stable continuous environment that is paramount for proper social and cognitive development (NACCRRA, 2011).
The reduction in funding for preschool comes at a time when parents income is decreasing because of the lack of permanent jobs or well paying jobs. This reduces the capacity of parents to pay for their current childcare setting, increasing the number of people who qualify for government subsidiaries (NACCRRA, 2011). Because of the recession, less people are capable of paying childcare fees thus more care centers are closing down or reducing the number of staff. The less space in care centers available in many community areas and harsh economic condition leads to an increase in the cost per space. This further reduces the capacity of not only low-income families, but also middle-income families to pay for childcare. Scientific studies conducted to determine the effects of preschool experience on children from low-income and middle-income families reveal a number of advantages. Children who attend preschool are less likely to engage in criminal activities later in life. Preschool also increases educational attainment. Given the obvious short-term and long-term benefits of preschool, policies makers must make it a priority to safe guard not only the fragile household economies of low and middle-level income families, but also the future of children from these households (NACCRRA, 2011).
References
National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (NACCRRA). (2011). The Current Economys Impact on Child Care. Retrieved from: http://www.naccrra.org/public-policy/resources/economic-impact-on-child-care