Publications

Early Childhood Program Evaluations: A Decision-Maker’s Guide

Increasing demands for evidence-based early childhood services and the need by policymakers to know whether a program is effective or whether it warrants a significant investment of public and/or private funds—coupled with the often-politicized debate around these topics—make it imperative for policymakers and civic leaders to have the independent knowledge needed to be able to evaluate the quality and relevance of the evidence provided in reports. This clear, concise guide from the National Forum on Early Childhood Program Evaluation helps prepare decision-makers to be better consumers of evaluation information by posing five key questions that address both the substance and the practical utility of rigorous evaluation research.
Download PDF
Order Printed copies

A Science-Based Framework for Early Childhood Policy

A ground-breaking framework for using evidence to improve outcomes in learning, behavior, and health for vulnerable children, co-authored by the members of the National Forum on Early Childhood Program Evaluation and the National Scientic Council on the Developing Child. Combining knowledge from neuroscience, behavioral and developmental science, economics, and 40 years of early childhood program evaluation, the authors provide an informed, nonpartisan, pragmatic framework to guide policymakers toward science-based policies that improve the lives of young children and benefit society as a whole.
Download PDF
Summary of Essential Findings
Order Printed copies
Press Release
NCSL PowerPoint Presentation, Aug. 7, 2007 (PDF)
NCSL Press Conference Audio Recording, Aug. 6, 2007 (46:13, 2.8MB)
Summary of report in NGA Center for Best Practices “Bright Futures” Newsletter

The Science of Early Childhood Development: Closing the Gap Between What We Know and What We Do

This 2007 publication from the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child offers a concise, clear overview of the science of early childhood and brain development as it relates to policies and programs that could make a significant difference in the lives of children—and all of society. Includes discussion of seven core concepts of development and their implications for policy and practice.
Download PDF
Order printed copies

Working Paper Series.

The National Scientific Council’s signature working papers discuss the scientific knowledge base around specific early childhood issues and its significance for public policy related to life long learning, behavior and health. In addition to the four posted, work is underway on papers laying out the science behind critical and sensitive periods of development as well as children’s mental health.
More

Also at the website of the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child:

Peer-Reviewed Articles -- authored by a collaboration of Council members.

Science Briefs -- concise summaries and analyses of recent studies in neuroscience and behavioral/developmental science.

Perspectives -- articles and interviews featuring Council scientists.