A Smart Investment with Big Returns
What if one investment could strengthen families, improve schools, build a stronger workforce and boost Arizona’s economy? That’s exactly what investing in early childhood does.
First Things First is Arizona’s early childhood agency, dedicated to funding innovative programs that provide quality child care, strengthen families and increase access to preventive health services.
Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman found that every $1 invested in quality early childhood programs generates $4 to $16 in returns. The earlier we act, the greater the impact—for kids, families, businesses and communities.
The Early Years Have the Biggest Impact
The first five years of life are a once-in-a-lifetime window to shape a child’s future. With 90% of brain development happening before kindergarten, this is when essential skills like problem-solving, communication and collaboration take root.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that children with access to quality early learning are more prepared for kindergarten and create:
- Stronger students: Kids with access to quality early learning enter kindergarten ready to thrive, perform better in school, and are more likely to graduate and pursue higher education.
- Healthier communities: High school graduates are less likely to rely on social services, are more employable, and contribute to Arizona’s economy as tax-paying citizens.
- Economic growth: Well-educated adults are better equipped to fill skilled jobs, creating a competitive, thriving workforce for Arizona’s future.
It’s not just about kids—it’s about reducing crime, decreasing reliance on social services and building stronger, safer communities.
Building Arizona’s Workforce of Tomorrow
Business leaders agree—Arizona’s economic future depends on a pipeline of skilled, motivated workers. Quality early childhood programs lay the foundation for the skills employers value most:
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Collaboration
- Communication
- Decision-making
A Statewide Economic Issue
The child care crisis cost Arizona’s economy $4.7 billion annually, according to the Council for a Strong America’s 2023 report.
- Families lose $3 billion annually in earnings and job search expenses.
- Employers lose $958 million annually in turnover and productivity.
- Arizona loses $725 million annually in tax revenue.
Reliable, high-quality child care is not just a family need—it’s an economic necessity that strengthens our state’s workforce and economy.
