Schools should start investing in early years: Know why Schools should start investing in early years: Know why Numerous research studies have shown that the first five years are the most important in a child's development, with eighty-five per cent of brain development occurring during these years. advertisement What are the elements of an ideal early years programme? | Representational image Educators working with young children have one of the most rewarding and difficult jobs. Numerous research studies have shown that the first five years are the most important in a child's development, with eighty-five per cent of brain development occurring during these years. Providing responsive, nurturing, and stimulating experiences at this stage motivates children to acquire new skills and prepare them for the future.