Blueprint for the Federal Role in Advancing Early Learning Research & Development

Federal Education R&D Policy
Report
April 2026

Informed by the insights of 25 leaders across early learning, this blueprint provides targeted federal policy recommendations to advance early learning research and innovation and ensure that children, families, and educators are set up to thrive.

To build a more robust and responsive early learning R&D ecosystem, federal policymakers should:

  • Invest in early learning R&D that addresses the unique needs of children, families, and educators.
  • Advance intergenerational policies through a family support R&D agenda.
  • Expand public-private partnerships to accelerate the pace and impact of innovation.
  • Establish a National Early Learning R&D Hub for excellence, quality, and innovation.
  • Establish a national framework for responsible AI in early learning.

 

ALI conducts advocacy work thanks to financial support from the Walton Education Coalition (WEC).