3b Infant Brain Development Continued

Neurons and the extremely fast pace at which they develop connections is a self-initiated process fueled by infants’ biological, inborn drive towards competence. However, this growth is dependent upon the parent/caregivers provision of a variety of quality, appropriate experiences that increase neurological connections.

A nurturing and responsive relationship between young children and parent/caregivers builds their capacity for bonding and attachment, first to their primary caregivers, and later to other human beings. The quality of these early experiences within the first few years of life influences how children will interact with others throughout their lives.[5]

For young children’s healthy development, the “who” that provides warm, consistent, responsive, and nurturing interactions is less important than the quality of relationships between children and their primary parent/caregivers. That is to say, the consistent, responsive, nurturing caregivers may be grandparents, other family members, adoptive or foster parents, as well as biological parents. Development of secure attachments to caregivers other than the biological parent can also offer some protection against problematic early relationships by allowing young children to experience consistent, appropriate, and emotionally nurturing responses to their needs.

REFLECTION QUESTION

Why do you think knowing the science of early childhood development is important for your work as a CASA?

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