Study: Pre-K Alone Doesn't Ensure Child's Success

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Pre-K isn't producing positive impacts on academic achievement in later grades, according to a recently released study from Vanderbilt University. 

Researchers found that students who participated in state-funded pre-K benefited significantly at first, but by third grade those students tested worse in academics and behavior. 

Lysa Parker, co-founder of Attachment Parenting International, says the results can be attributed to a lack of emphasis state programs place on early investment in children and parent support. 

"Parents are their children's first teacher,” she points out. “They should be supported as well. I think our culture creates numerous obstacles for young parents to be able to give their children what they really want."

Parker says studies show that parent involvement in early learning and the act of soothing and holding a child is valuable to early development.