The United States is woefully behind the rest of the industrialized world when it comes to early childhood education (ECE). A 2016 study found that out of 36 countries, the U.S. ranked 29th in enrollment rates for its 3-year-olds and 4-year-olds. In 2014, only 42% of 3-year-olds and 68% of 4-year-olds were enrolled in ECE or preschool programs in the U.S. In comparison, France, Belgium, Israel, Spain, Norway, Germany, Sweden, and Italy all have enrollment rates of 90% and above for both age groups.
According to a new meta-analysis by the American Educational Research Association, low ECE enrollment does students and school boards a major disservice. The organization’s study found that students who were enrolled in ECE programs showed increased high school graduation rates, reduced special education placement, and reduced instances of grade retention.
Researchers reviewed 22 studies published between 1960 and 2016 that tracked students enrolled in ECE programs. Participation in high-quality ECE programs reduced future special education placement by 8.1%, decreased grade retention by 8.3%, and increased high school graduation rates by 11.4%. “Early childhood education programs on balance seem to be effective for these important school outcomes,” said Greg Duncan, professor of education at the University of California. “These differences are big enough to translate into real dollars being saved for K-12 schooling.”
The study also shows the economic benefits of ECE programs. According to the American Educational Research Association, when students are held back in school, it costs districts an additional $8,000 to $12,000 per student. Dropping out of high school costs students and society a serious amount of money as well. It’s estimated to cause a $689,000 reduction in lifetime earnings and adds a $262,000 cost to the broader economy as well.
“It is exciting that our results show that the benefits of early childhood education are sustained through elementary school and beyond,” Dana McCoy, a study co-author, said. “These results provide further evidence for the potential individual and societal benefits of expanding early childhood education programming in the United States.” Studies like these provide solid evidence of the benefits of ECE and can help to further the expansion of programs designed to increase enrollment.
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Grieving couple comforting each other
This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.