Early Childhood

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT: 7 different pathways to kindergarten

With only a few studies on the pathways that children take from birth to kindergarten, this OSU study shows the variety of pathways children take to reach kindergarten.

Striving Readers

Crane and Schoenbaum Centers, in partnership with Greene County Educational Service Center and Madison-Champaign Educational Service Center received a Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy Grant to form the Ohio State Research Foundation Consortium which aimed to improve literacy outcomes for Ohio children birth to age five.

Kindergarten Transition Practices

Considerable efforts are underway across the United States to expand access to early childhood education for young children. Corresponding to increased access to early childhood education across the country is a need to improve children’s transition from early education settings into the primary grades. When children start kindergarten, they are transitioning into a context that is distinct from their earlier experiences.

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT: Long-term consequences of school absenteeism by Dr. Arya Ansari

There are many misconceptions about school absenteeism. This new study from the Crane Center shows that early absences do matter, and in ways we may not have considered. Read here for a summary of the findings and for a link to the full published research.

Ohio Families Struggle during COVID-19 Pandemic

Recognizing the potential growing crisis for Ohio families from the coronavirus pandemic, our researchers designed a rapid-response study of family conditions during COVID-19. This white paper shares their preliminary findings offer valuable information about the social, economic, and psychosocial impacts.

Steps to Sustainability: Fundamental Reforms to Our Systems of Child Care and Early-Learning Programs

Our Broken Child Care System and How to Fix It, Part 3: The final segment of this series examines how the many systems that make up U.S. child care are failing. Fixes that are both sweeping enough and realistic aren’t obvious, so Dr. Laura Justice turns to three experts to weigh in.

Rebuilding the Early Child Care and Education System

Our country’s early care and education system was fractured and in crisis, even before COVID-19. The abrupt closure of many child care centers, new requirements upon opening, and challenges facing families make it even more pressing that our “rebuilding” efforts work toward a more sustainable and equitable child care system.

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHT: Neighborhood affect on parenting by Dr. Jaclyn Dynia

Do neighborhood affect parenting practices? Most of the literature around how neighborhoods influence parenting looks at families with older children; a new Crane study studied this influence for families with infants. In our highlights of this research, we also share a possible action step based on the findings.

Is Pre-Kindergarten Too Much Work and Not Enough Play?

With more children attending pre-kindergarten and expectations that children be “kindergarten ready,” concerns have emerged that preschools may be too academic in nature. This white paper attempts to shed light on these questions and offers valuable information in the conversation regarding play and academics in pre-K.

Interactive read alouds: tips for parents and caregivers for enriching reading experiences at home

Many parents and caregivers find themselves at home with young children while schools and child care centers are closed. Reading aloud is one of the most significant activities for developing literacy that also creates a sense of connection and safety in what may be a difficult time. Read on for research-backed tips to help make the most of these shared experiences.