Molly Brown

December 9, 2014
Child Development Final Exam
1. Detroit, Michigan is a city that has changed greatly in our recent history. The population
has dropped down to about 700,000 and the once booming auto industry only employs
about 20,000 people in Detroit. Crime is a major problem in this area. It has the highest
violent crime rating in the country, and 70% of that crime is dug related. The
unemployment rate in Detroit is 23% which is well below the national average. Over
50% of the children in Detroit live below the poverty line.
2. Mayor of Detroit: Mike Duggan
School Board President: Herman Davis
School Board Vice President: Ida Short
State Superintendent: Mike Flanagan
3. One reason you all should invest is quality child care for the children of Detroit is
because preschool programs have substantial impacts on childrens early learning. A
recent analysis of preschools across the nation found that children gain language skills,
reading skills and math skills when they attend a quality preschool program. Children
also gain social skills. These benefits start children with a strong foundation for leaning.
These opportunities are vital for future success.
Another reason to support and invest in quality childcare is its results on academic
school readiness. Evidence shows that one year or two years of preschool in a
developmentally appropriate program will improve school readiness. This means that
students who have attended preschool are lower levels of timidity and higher levels of

attentiveness and engagement. If students are provided with quality preschool programs,
they will be more prepared for school and more prepared to learn. The effects of quality
childcare extend beyond the time the children are in in preschool. When student are
provided with the opportunity to learn how to be students in preschool, they are prepared
to walk into Kindergarten ready to learn, pay attention, and engage with what they are
learning. These skills will greatly benefit the students in the future.
Lastly, quality childcare has positive results for children with special needs. The
special needs children of Detroit will be greatly impacted by quality childcare. Special
needs who attended preschool showed significant gains in math skills and social skills. In
a recent study of special needs students in preschool, special needs students improved in
their reading and writing skills as well as math. These years of preschool are crucial times
for all students, including those with special needs. Having affordable, quality childcare
will be extremely beneficial for the future academic and social successes of children with
special needs.
4. In summary, I believe that the leaders of the city of Detroit should invest in the future by
investing in quality childcare for the children of Detroit. The benefits of quality childcare
greatly outweigh the costs. When students attend quality childcare programs, their early
learning is greatly impacted. They show gains in math skills, reading skills, and social
skills. Another benefit is the effect quality childcare has on academic readiness. Student
who attend preschool are more prepared to start school. These children will be more
engaged and attentive when they begin attending school. Providing quality childcare is
vital for all students, especially those with special needs. Quality preschool programs
improve academic skills as well as social skills for students with special needs.