Pre-K Works with Parents

Re: "Preschool loosens parent-child bonds", Michael Smith, June 13, 2005.

Michael Smith's concern for children's well being is understandable, but misplaced. Contrary to Smith's assertions, meaningful parent involvement is a key element of all quality pre-k programs. Moreover, decades of solid academic research have proven that children who attend high-quality, voluntary pre-k programs have stronger educational and social skills than children who do not.

Currently 41 states have some type of publicly funded pre-k program and none of them are compulsory, nor should they be. Parent choice is paramount in any pre-k system and naturally, some families opt out altogether. Add to this the fact that most programs are half day, and Smith's concerns about family disruption are without merit.

High-quality, voluntary pre-k complements and enhances good parenting. A good pre-k program is built around parents' expectations; they should feel welcome and involved. Pre-k is the perfect opportunity to engage parents early in their child's education.

Finally, it is important to note that working mothers and stay-at-home mothers opt to send their children to pre-k at virtually the same rates. As Smith himself says, "Supporting what we know works and allowing parents to freely choose is the wisest course of action for a child's early education." Armed with evidence from more than 40 years of studies showing the benefits of pre-k, families are doing just that.

Libby Doggett, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Pre-K Now