Numerous studies have documented the positive link between high quality early care and the intellectual, verbal, cognitive, behavioral, and social development of children of all ages. Parents understand implicitly the positive role that tender, loving care plays in a young child s development. For these parents, common sense dictates that babies cared for by loving and attentive adults in safe, predictable environments will be better learners than those raised with less attention in less secure settings. Now that scientists are able to study the developing brain, powerful scientific evidence confirms the particular importance of the first three years of a child s life. The brain development that takes place during the pre-natal period and in the first year of life is more rapid and extensive than previously realized.
Brain development is much more vulnerable to environmental influence than previously suspected.
The influence of early environment on brain development is long-lasting. While an adverse environment can have long-lasting negative effects, a good start in life can do much more to promote learning and prevent damage than was previously thought. The quality of care received by children of all ages has long-term, significant effects on their intellectual and social development. Had more advanced social skills. Had more positive attitudes toward their child care experiences.