the preschool to prison pipeline turning off the flow

The Preschool to Prison Pipeline

Turning off the Flow

www.mo.childcareaware.org

Where it Begins


Baby Brain Development 101

• Early experiences – Decisive impact on brain architecture– Directly affect the way the brain is “wired”

• Genetics are the Interstate Highways; experience develops secondary roads

• Genetics provide the “trunk” lines; experience connects neighborhoods/homes


Making Connections


Building and Pruning


Relationship Skills Before 3 Years


WE MAKE FUTURE CRIMINALS

From birth to three...


Baby Brain Development 201

• Architecture influenced by relationships• Positive connections: “to and fro” interactions– Holding, snuggling– Talking and singing– Feeding– Eye gazing– Mutual babbling


Early Childhood Mental Health

• Sensory nourishment (i.e., “food for the brain”)

• Attachment, bonding• Emotional security• Trust• Social cue competence• Body boundaries• Self-soothing


Toxic Stress – What it Is• Constant and prolonged

activation of stress response systems– Chronic neglect– Traumatic experiences

• Absence of protective (i.e., caring, stable, nurturing) relationships

• Higher impact during sensitive periods


Toxic Stress – Causes• Strong, frequent and/or prolonged adversity...– Physical or emotional abuse– Chronic neglect– Caregiver substance abuse or mental illness– Exposure to violence– Family economic hardship

• ...Without adequate adult support


Toxic Stress – Effects • Disrupted development of brain architecture• Disrupted development of other organ systems (e.g.,

digestion, circulatory)• Increased risk for stress-related diseases:– Heart disease– Diabetes– Substance abuse– Depression

• Cumulative toll on physical and mental health... for a lifetime


Stress In, Stress Out Nurture In, Nurture Out


WE MAKE FUTURE DROPOUTS

From three to five...


Predictive Validity of ECE

Graduation3rd Grade ReadersSchool Readiness


Where it Began


Where it Ends – Our Choice


Action: Questions to Ask• Are all early care and education programs

licensed and monitored? – How well? – How often?

• Do we objectively and accountably measure quality of programs and share that information with parents?

• What are our policies for workforce qualifications and continuing education?


Thank you!

We improve outcomes for children and families,

ensuring that children and youth are prepared for

success in school and for future participation in a

globally competitive economy.

L. Carol Scott, PhDChief Executive [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

the preschool to prison pipeline turning off the flow

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