Research Notes: The Argument for Early Intervention

Despite nearly a century of debate, no consensus has yet emerged about the best strategies for addressing the achievement gap.

In an examination of the research evidence on the benefits of early childhood education, Irma Perez-Johnson and Rebecca Maynard conclude that programs that are "intensive, high-quality, and long-lasting" are the most effective, with "the potential to eliminate a substantial amount of the kindergarten readiness gaps."

As the authors explain, arguments in favor of early intervention are strong. First, "early learning both facilitates and increases the motivation for future learning." Second, early childhood interventions are more effective than alternative interventions. Third, intervening in early childhood-leveling the playing field-makes it fairer to hold schools accountable for student learning.

Later investments will still be needed to sustain the gains brought about by early education, the authors write, but fewer children will need such remediation.

"The Case for Early, Targeted Interventions to Prevent Academic Failure" appears in the Peabody Journal of Education, 82(4).