1 The Science of Early Development

The Science of Early Development

Children’s early development lays the foundation for who they will be as young children, teenagers, and adults. Early childhood is when children are the most vulnerable, and the most adaptable to change and new experiences. However, they are also the most susceptible to life-impacting trauma.

Fortunately, young children are highly resilient and are often able to recover from traumatic events when provided with early intervention and appropriate supports. The dynamic and delicate processes happening within infants’ brains when they receive and respond to sensory inputs are sensitive to the quality of parent/caregiver interactions, environments in which they grow, and whether they have access to opportunities and supports that strengthen their health and well-being.

Research on the science of early development is extensive, multifaceted, and more complex than this training can cover. From a beginning understanding of the neural circuitry of the maturing brain, to the expanding network of children’s social relationships, and the enduring and changing cultural values of the society in which parents raise children, are key components to comprehending children's needs in the first years of life.[1] It also provides the underpinnings to understanding typical and atypical courses of development.

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