“Preschool helps children learn to read by third grade.”

“Children who attend preschool are more likely to go to college.”

“Children who attend preschool are more successful as adults.”

These statements have been repeated so often they are generally accepted as fact. Parents are becoming so concerned about preschool academic achievement that some even put their newborn infants on a waiting list for preschool enrollment.

Preschool: At What Cost? challenges the notion that young children benefit from early formal academics and out-of-home preschool programs. Susan K. Stewart takes a complete look at the history of the preschool movement, studies behind the statements, and unpublicized evidence that young children may benefit from more play and less school.