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Policy & Research

Uncovering knowledge and driving change in the service of children.

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Policy & Research

Where Early Child Research & Policy Intersect

Improving children’s lives by conducting research to inform public policy.

At the heart of Erikson Institute is our mission: to educate, inspire and promote leadership that supports children and families in reaching their full potential.

By conducting critical research and influencing data-driven public policies, we’re creating lasting change to positively impact children.

Explore How We Advocate for Policy & Leadership in Early Childhood Explore Research

Early Childhood Research Informs the Need for Action

1800
The first 1800 days of life set the stage for children’s development
13 %
Return on investment per child for high quality early childhood development programs
85 %
Of brain growth and development happens in the first 5 years of life

Research

Answering the Most Challenging Child Development Research Questions

We conduct critical child development applied research to inform policy and community action.

From classroom methodologies to home-based care networks, our work seeks to generate knowledge through rigorous research in a number of areas.

  • Assessments
  • Early Childcare Workforce
  • Family Supports
  • Home-Based Child Care
  • Infants and Toddlers
  • Schools and Teachers
  • Technology and Young Children

Meet our researchers, read our reports, and join us in discovering how we can change the world to better serve the needs of children and families.

Learn more about Research

Executive Education

Empowering Leaders to Evolve Public Policies Based on Data

The more we know, the better we can serve children, families, and communities.

Through our Executive Education initiatives, we work to improve children’s lives by advocating for data-driven public policies and leadership in service of positive outcomes.

Learn more about Executive Education

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Find out how we engage and contribute expertise on early childhood policy to policy tables, maintaining a focus on workforce issues and building a pipeline of advocates.

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Learn more about our fellowship programs and workshops on early childhood science, social service systems, and current issues.

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Support your project and strategic planning with coaching support and add to your staff’s professional growth with tailored learning experiences from Erikson.

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Find out what’s happening in the world of child development

Subscribe for the latest updates on policy and applied research at Erikson and around the nation.

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The Latest Applied Research

Explore Our Research in Early Child Development

Our team of researchers is at the forefront of early childhood development applied research.

See What We’re Discovering