Early childhood education is one of the most important policy topics around. Research has shown that the early years of childhood are a critical period because it provides the opportunity to develop a child's full potential; as well as forming academic, social and cognitive skills that determine not only success in school but also throughout their lives (The White House). In the United States the right to free, public education is guaranteed to all children. Early education is voluntary and therefore some children are not given the opportunity to reach their full potential. As a staff member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, I believe that promoting and investing in effective, high-quality, accessible educational programs is the most advantageous position on this issue. We remain true to our mission on this issue and work to build a high-quality system for early childhood education (NAEYC). First of all, there is research on how important and critical learning is early in life, as well as how it reflects outcomes later down the road. During childhood, the development of communication skills and learning abilities supports other critical improvements. Even before children enter elementary school, weak academic skills are found to be associated with behavioral and attention problems (The National Academic Press, 124). Academic achievement in adolescence can be traced back to academic skills acquired years later when entering school. (The National Academic Press, 125) It is clear that early involvement in learning and development is very beneficial and influences many aspects of life. It does not predetermine our lives, but rather lays the foundation for healthy development. What you learn early in life establishes a whole... middle of paper... pr. 2014. “Early Learning.” The White House. The White House and the Web. April 20, 2014. .Olsen, Darcy. “Preschool attendance by young children is not necessary.” Political report no. 201: Evaluation of preschool and kindergarten proposals: essential information for parents, taxpayers and policymakers. Phoenix, Arizona: Goldwater Institute, 2005. Rpt. in the family. Ed. Karen Miller. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2008. Opposing Viewpoints. Opposing points of view in context. Network. April 21, 2014. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press