The article “Initiative aims to help kids” (July 16) states that investments in children are critical to the future prosperity of Maine. That investment is important during the formative years, prenatal to age 5. A child’s development determines in large part their ability to succeed as an adult.

Since 1965, Head Start has strengthened families and communities by giving our most vulnerable children the opportunity to succeed in life. The 11 Head Start programs in Maine provide early care and education, health, nutrition, mental health, social and family support to children in their programs, including those with disabilities. Programs focus on school readiness skills with emphasis on parent involvement. Parents are the major component in the assessment and individualization process for their children. Individual assessments identify the needs of children to determine if they are typically developing in areas such as social emotional development, language, literacy, math and science.

Head Start supports families by ensuring that children have access to: ongoing preventative medical, dental and mental health services, all required immunizations, well-child visits and a health-care provider.

High poverty rates are troubling. Policymakers must keep this in mind with all future investment decisions. Every dollar invested in preventative health care for mothers and children saves money later in remedial and custodial dollars. Investing early saves taxpayers in public expenses, with the added benefit of productive adults in the workforce.

I urge continued support of Head Start programs, as well as all early education.

Estelle Rubinstein, executive director

Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care