Early Years Research

The Importance of the EarlyON

The early years of a child's life — from birth to age five — are a time of immense changes and rapid learning. During this time, a child's brain grows quickly, building the foundation for how they think, feel, and learn. Research from the Government of Canada shows that high-quality early learning and child care (ELCC) helps children do better in school and in life. (Defining and measuring the quality of Early Learning and Child Care: A literature review - Canada.ca)

In Ontario, early years programs focus on helping children feel secure, competent, and ready to learn. The province's approach supports strong relationships, play-based learning, and skilled educators. Studies show that when children have caring adults and enriched, safe places to explore, they build better language, social, and problem-solving skills. (Canada country background report - Quality in early childhood education and care - Canada.ca)

Helping young children also helps families and communities. When we invest in early learning, we give children a strong start and support parents in their work and home lives. Across Canada, governments are working together to improve the quality of child care so that every child has the chance to grow and succeed. (Multilateral Early Learning and Child Care Framework - Canada.ca)

Research plays a key role in making early years programs better. In Canada, studies have shown that the quality of care — like how educators interact with children — is one of the most important parts of a child's development. (Defining and measuring the quality of early Learning and Child Care: A literature review - Canada.ca)

This kind of research helps governments and educators understand what works best so they can create programs that truly support children and families. In Ontario and across the country, using research to guide decisions helps build stronger, more caring communities for everyone.