National Scientific Council on the Developing Child

The Science of Early Childhood

Neuroscience, molecular biology, and genomics tell us that early life experiences are built into our bodies. They get under our skin and into the brain and other organ systems, with lasting effects on individuals, communities, society, and the economy. Children subjected to poverty, violence, or neglect during these early years without a supportive network of adults can end up with faulty “wiring” that has long-term consequences well into adulthood. Experiences during the first few years of life – good and bad—literally shape the architecture of the developing brain. Stable, positive relationships with adults and growth-promoting experiences are key to the development of the architecture that forms the foundation for all future learning, behavior, and health.

[The site provides links to 2 reports and 10 working papers which provides valuable information to parents who want to have an in-depth view about the subject of child development.]

http://developingchild.harvard.edu/initiatives/council/