A new study from Columbia University and the New York City Health Department reveals that early intervention services, such as occupational, physical, and speech therapies, lead to improved test scores in children years later. The research is the first of its kind to demonstrate these long-term academic benefits. It highlights the positive impact on young children’s development and future educational performance.
Key Points
- Early intervention includes therapies like occupational, physical, and speech for young children.
- Study shows improved test scores persisting years after the interventions.
- Conducted by researchers from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and NYC Health Department.
Implications for Educational Freedom
This study underscores the value of early support services in enhancing educational outcomes, which could empower parents through school choice mechanisms like ESAs to access such interventions outside traditional public systems. It highlights potential government overreach if these services are mandated, emphasizing the need for parental rights in deciding early education paths.
Source: Early intervention services for young children boost later test scores