Early readers create better outcomes later in life

By Lindsey Turnbull

A conference held in early November by the literacy advocates, LIFE, highlighted some critical reminders for parents to spend precious time reading with their children from when their children are a young age. Educators, carers, and government have vital parts to play at promoting literacy at a young age too, the attendees heard.

LIFE, which began in 2012 with a focus on improving literacy and reading outcomes in Cayman’s primary schools, has increasingly shifted attention to the early years in response to growing evidence that foundational development occurs before a child enters formal schooling. The organisation now prioritises early childhood development, recognising that a child’s learning journey begins at birth. LIFE’s work increasingly supports children from birth to age five and the caregivers and educators who shape those early years.

LIFE Executive Director Erica Dell’Oglio said they wanted to bring stakeholders together – community, educators, policymakers, and the private sector - for a national conversation about how to tackle the literacy problem in Cayman by investing in early childhood education.

“There’s a lot of strong scientific evidence spanning economics, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and education research supporting investment in early childhood education,” she said.  “Investment here does not just help individual children; it strengthens families, reduces inequality, and builds a more equitable and stable community for everyone.” 

Early learning vital

Dr Dan Wuori, a U.S.-based expert in early childhood policy and brain development, delivered the keynote address, underscored these points, stating that the first five years of a child’s life were critical to later success. He explained that investments in early childhood education yield significant economic and social returns, often higher than later interventions.

Staci Scott from KPMG shared the findings of a new report, From Play to Progress: Strengthening Early Childhood Education in the Cayman Islands, which gives the first comprehensive look at early childhood education in Cayman. It provides a roadmap for improving literacy and learning outcomes and, it is anticipated, will serve as a foundation for future action across the public and private sectors.

Dr Shannon Seymour from The Wellness Centre gave further insight, stating the first five years of life were the most critical for brain development.

“Brains’ structures are present at birth, but brain connectivity is wired by caregivers,” she advised. “The quality of caregiving impacts the efficiency of neural pathways important for language, literacy, and future learning.”

Dr Seymour said that the period ages 0 to 5 was a critical window for brain development and literacy and represented the greatest period for investment outcome potential. Screens created passive experiences that do not build brain architecture. Early childhood education needed investment, respect and support.

Emphasising this point, Dr Nicola Williams from Cooperative Nurturing Care, said early experiences literally shaped the architecture of the brain, so quality early learning and caregiving environments had lifelong effects.

Collective effort

Mrs Dell’Oglio said the take-home points from the conference were that everyone had a part to play in shaping brighter beginnings and stronger futures for every child through the power of literacy. She said that parents were a child’s first teachers, and home was their first classroom. She urged parents to put electronic devices away and spend quality time with their children by talking, reading to them, and playing together.

“Play is not a luxury; it’s critical for healthy development,” she said, adding that investment in early childhood education was vital for building healthy, equitable societies.

“When parents read, talk, and write with their children daily, even for just a few minutes, it strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence,” she continued.  “Simple actions like reading bedtime stories, discussing books, or encouraging journaling show children that reading matters. By making literacy part of everyday family life, parents help lay the foundation for lifelong learning and success.”

Mrs Dell’Oglio concluded that the conference was an incredible day of connection, learning, and inspiration.

“While we recognise there is still much work ahead, we move forward with hope, inspired by the collective spirit of so many who care deeply about the future of the Cayman Islands,” she said.

LIFE Chair Woody Foster said Cayman must prioritise investment in early childhood development. “If we want a stronger Cayman tomorrow, we must invest in our children today,” he said. “Early education is not a luxury. It is a foundation for social mobility, economic opportunity and national development.”