From Neurons to Nation: Early Learning that Fosters Democratic Ideals

Can early learning environments foster democratic ideals? Is our democracy in crisis, teetering on the verge of implosion, or is our country still in its infancy, and these are just growing pains we can respond to with love and nurturing?

In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Trust for Learning, Grantmakers for Education and the Early Childhood Funders Collaborative will co-host a provocative series connecting the dots on children’s formative experiences in publicly-funded learning environments and our country’s democratic ideals. We'll explore what encompasses an ideal learning environment, one that not only supports children’s cognitive, emotional and academic development, but also creates the foundation for the realization of our shared civic aims.

While it may at times feel that democracy is in peril, the United States is still in its formative years - in a sensitive period that we can respond to with presence, vision and love. How will we shape the future of a peaceful, multiracial, just and free democracy through investments in our youngest community members?

In the first program, Dr. Iheoma Iruka will kick off the series with Dr. Fabienne Doucet and a panel of experts.