1) Intelligence and social skills developed early in life are essential for success, and problems like crime, dropout rates, and health issues stem from a lack of abilities like focus, persistence, and social skills. 2) Investing early in a child's development from ages 0-5 provides the greatest returns, more than any other period, as it influences IQ and social/economic achievement long-term. 3) Studies show early childhood development programs for disadvantaged children can provide a 10% return on investment to society through increased achievement.