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development and examining the linkages between such programs and individual and societal
outcomes, they conclude that early child programs provide net benefits to society. They also
point out that these programs are even more beneficial today than in previous periods as women
enter the labour force in increasing numbers and young workers devote more hours to work.
Lynch (2007) also provides arguments as to why educational investment at a young age is
a good long-term economic policy, as high quality pre-kindergarten generally pays for itself. He
finds that despite the upfront cost of providing suitable pre-kindergarten programs, by 2050 the
benefits of the program would outweigh the costs by 12.1 to 1. A policy of this nature would
actually earn the government money through increased revenues and lower costs from the
reduction of crime. Education therefore improves the quality of life of the student and society in
general as a result of both a safer environment and an increase in government revenues.
Although the initial costs of these programs are high - each participant will cost approximately
$6,300 (Lynch, 2007:4) - it is estimated that if such a program were instituted universally in the
United States it would only take 12 years for the program to start providing positive net benefits.
The attractiveness of such a policy can also be seen as better education programs for
children at a young age will reduce the need for remedial and special education programs in the
future. This will reduce the need for government funding in remedial and special education
programs. The need for government to provide social assistance will also decline as children will
have more of the tools needed to help lift themselves out of poverty as adults.
Investment in education can have sustained effects on the lives of children as they will be
able to improve their lives, the lives of their future children and society as a whole. Education
benefits not only the economic aspects of life, but also improves other facets as well. Education
decreases participation in criminal activity, reduces the occurrence of teen pregnancy,
encourages people to make better lifestyle choices and improve their health. Quality education
provides children with the skills to improve their future and contribute to society. In general, the
benefits of effective educational programs can therefore be seen to greatly outweigh any costs
associated with their implementation.