HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Dr. Carrie Cutler loves kids. Not only is she a mother of 8, but she is also a professor at the University of Houston, teaching future educators how to instruct early education students.

"The rich preschool environment is really going to help kids develop skills, develop those relationships, and be well prepared for the rigors of school," Cutler said.

When it comes to a child's brain, Dr. Cutler says they need to use it or risk losing it. He says the more a young child is challenged, the stronger their mental function will be later in life.

"The more neural connections, the more kids can make sense out of the things they are experiencing anew," Cutler said.

HISD data shows a drop in the number of kids attending early childhood centers, pre-k, and kindergarten.

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