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Start Early. Start well.
The mission of the Buffett Early Childhood Institute is to transform the lives of young children by improving their learning and development.
Who we are

Who we are

We are an innovative research, practice, and policy institute of the University of Nebraska.

We harness the multidisciplinary resources of all four campuses of the university to promote the development and learning of children from birth through age 8. Our efforts are focused especially on children who are vulnerable because of poverty, abuse, or developmental delays. MORE

What we do

What We Do

We put knowledge that exists into action to improve children's learning and development.

We transform early childhood development and education through applied research, professional preparation for early childhood educators and providers, public policy, and outreach. MORE

Why We Do It

Why We Do It

Research teaches us all that the most effective time to affect a child's future is from birth through age 8.

We believe all children deserve the opportunity to develop, learn, and succeed in life. And we know that the earliest years are the best time to help children build a strong foundation for long-term success. MORE

Current Initiatives

Explore More: Using Technology in Early Childhood Education

A new collection of on-demand resources for early childhood professionals; these videos and professional learning guides offer specific and practical information for the equitable use of technology in classroom and child care environments. Learn more

2020-25 Strategic Plan

A comprehensive document detailing why our work is important, what we aim to accomplish, and how we plan to be successful. Read the plan

Newsletter

Learn about more of our current initiatives in our newsletter. Sign up here

News Releases

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Events

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“For children at risk, early childhood programs are nothing less than a lifeline to success.”

SAMUEL J. MEISELS, ED.D., FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Nebraska’s Children in Need

The Buffett Early Childhood Institute's work begins in our home state, where the need for high-quality early childhood programs and services is urgent and growing.

schoolhouse illustration schoolhouse illustration

36%

Thirty-six percent of Nebraska’s children from birth through age 5 are considered at risk for school failure.

stick figures of a growing child

at least 75%

In Nebraska, more than 75 percent of children under age 6 live in homes where all adults work.

solid green single family house

91%

Ninety-one percent of counties in Nebraska with child care facilities do not have enough available slots to meet the current demand.

Sources: First Five Nebraska, Anne E. Casey Foundation Kids Count Data Center, Voices for Children

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