Investing in Kids Saves Billions | Montreal News

New research shows investing in young children—from prenatal care to age five—saves billions later by preventing costly outcomes like school dropout and chronic healthcare needs. Quebec’s data reveals a troubling rise in developmental delays among kindergarteners, directly tied to future academic and social costs. Economists estimate each dropout costs $29,050 annually, totaling $13.8 billion in 2024 alone. Early intervention isn’t just about academics—it’s about building social, emotional, and cognitive foundations that reduce long-term strain on education and health systems. A new initiative aims to deliver targeted support to diverse families, but success hinges on equitable access and politica...