- Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University - https://developingchild.harvard.edu -

Science

The science of early childhood is a source of new ideas that could be used to develop more effective policies & services focused on the early years of life.

Science tells us that early childhood is a time of both great promise and considerable risk. Having responsive relationships with adults, growth-promoting experiences, and healthy environments for all young children helps build sturdy brain architecture [1] and the foundations of resilience [2]. Meanwhile, significant disadvantages can disrupt the developmental process and lead to limited economic and social mobility that threatens the vitality, productivity, and sustainability of society.