Research & Development
40+ years of evidence-based practice informing early childhood education and kindergarten readiness
Grounded in Science, Focused on Children
We believe that early access to high-quality education is key to setting children on a path to lifelong success. That's why our research focuses on identifying the core elements of early education practices and policies that lead to better outcomes for children, families, and communities. We are committed to advancing the field's understanding of how to effectively support children's current and future success.
Our Pathways to Playful Learning program, built on over 40 years of research, is grounded in the belief that giving children the "gift of time" to develop at their own pace prepares them for long-term success. Through our work alongside programs worldwide, we've demonstrated that high-quality early education results in positive, lasting outcomes across generations. This deep commitment to equity, ensuring every child is supported and every teacher equipped, drives our research and continues to influence national conversations on early childhood education.
Our Research Impact
Four decades of continuous study and refinement in early childhood development
Over half a million students evaluated across our assessment programs
Trusted by hundreds of schools across Southern California and beyond
Comprehensive assessment across all critical areas of school readiness
Longitudinal Analysis
Explore how early processing skills and school readiness strongly correlate with long-term academic and career success, with insights from a comprehensive longitudinal study tracking students' progress over decades.
Explore the StudyResearch Studies & Findings
Discover the evidence behind our approach to early childhood development and kindergarten readiness
Auditory Memory & Discrimination Study
Discover how strengthening simple listening skills like auditory memory and discrimination can unlock a preschooler's full potential in language development and set the stage for lifelong learning success.
Read Study →Expressive & Receptive Language Study
Discover how building strong expressive and receptive language skills in preschoolers not only enhances their communication but also supports their cognitive, social, and academic growth.
Read Study →Fine Motor Development Study
Find out how fostering fine motor skills in preschool can set children on the path to academic success and stronger social readiness, with long-term benefits lasting into elementary years.
Read Study →Gross Motor Skills Study
Discover how gross motor development in preschool not only boosts academic readiness but also enhances social skills, laying the groundwork for future success in both the classroom and beyond.
Read Study →Our Research Principles
Evidence-Based
Every recommendation is grounded in rigorous research and validated through decades of real-world application.
Child-Centered
We honor each child's unique developmental timeline and individual learning needs.
Continuously Refined
Our methods evolve with new research insights while maintaining proven core principles.
Continuously Refined
Our methods evolve with new research insights while maintaining proven core principles.