Early Childhood Readiness

Wyoming Department of Education > For District Leadership > Early Childhood Readiness

Contact Information

Early Learning Specialist/Early Literacy Specialist/TANF Preschool Grant Administrator
Amy Reyes
(307) 777-7708
amy.reyes@wyo.gov
Special Education Early Childhood Specialist
Deana Smith
(307) 777-5326
deana.smith@wyo.gov
Head Start Collaboration Office Director
Helena Wagner
(307) 777-2057
helena.wagner@wyo.gov

Without a High-Quality Early Education, At-Risk Children are 25% more likely to drop out of school, 40% more likely to become a teen parent, 50% more likely to be placed in special education, 60% more likely to never attend college, and 70% more likely to be arrested for a violent crime. High-Quality Preschool Available to every child.

Early Learning is a critical component of a child’s education. Research has linked early intervention with both cognitive and socio-emotional gains since the early 20th century, and clearly shows that children enrolled in a form of early learning programs benefit by receiving an education before kindergarten.

Studies show that children enrolled in these programs showcase the following benefits:

  • Better behavioral patterns
  • Higher IQ scores when enrolling in kindergarten
  • Faster learning
  • Higher socio-economic outcomes later in life
  • Between 1.3% to 3.5% higher income over the course of their careers

Likewise, studies show that children that are behind when they enter kindergarten tend to remain behind for their entire educational career, and even beyond. These gaps in achievement are difficult and expensive to close with K-12 education alone, and the improved earnings show that early intervention is an intelligent investment.

Early Childhood Care and Education

Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is more than preparation for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of a child’s social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs in order to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. ECCE has the possibility to nurture caring, capable and responsible future citizens.

Did You Know

The overwhelming evidence shows that children who enter kindergarten behind are likely to remain behind throughout their educational careers and beyond. These gaps in achievement are difficult and expensive to close with K-12 education alone. We can help ensure children show up to kindergarten ready to learn by providing our youngest learners with options to access high-quality early childhood programs from ages zero to five—where they can develop the full range of skills necessary to be successful in school and life.

Early Childhood Collaborative Conference

September 28-30, 2023
Central Wyoming Community College
Riverton, Wyoming
Register

Partnering as an early childhood system to bring you a conference dedicated to a thriving and growing community that supports children throughout their early development. The conference will include sessions for educators working with infants, preschool-age, school-age, adults and leaders and much more.

Space is limited. Cost: $40. Learn more and register for this event. 

Contact Amy Reyes, Early Learning Specialist at 307-777-7708 or amy.reyes@wyo.org for more details.

Read more here: 

The importance of early childhood education

 Benefits of Early Childhood Education

Early Literacy

Resources