Lifelong effects of attendance at Kindergarten Union preschools in South Australia

Abstract

While there is some evidence of long-term social benefits from early childhood educational interventions conducted in socially disadvantaged populations in the USA, there is limited evidence of similar benefits in different populations and countries. This study examined a range of social outcomes of adults aged 34-67 years who, between 1940 and 1972, attended a Kindergarten Union preschool in South Australia, a comprehensive, high-quality, centre-based preschool program. There were modest benefits on educational attainment, risk of unemployment and income, but no evidence was found to support effects on type of occupation, full-time employment or housing tenure. Preschool programs have the potential to enhance human capital development into adulthood.