Early Experiences Build the Brain
Explore in this News You Can Use how the connections within the brain are created and made strong, the negative impact of chronic stress at an early age, and how caring adults can help even in difficult situations.
School readiness is foundational across early childhood systems and programs. It means children are ready for school, families are ready to support their children's learning, and schools are ready for children. Head Start views school readiness as children possessing the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for success in school and for later learning and life. Physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development are all essential ingredients of school readiness. Managers, teaching staff, caregivers, family advocates, and families can learn more about creating enriching and supportive learning environments for young children ages birth to 5.
Explore in this News You Can Use how the connections within the brain are created and made strong, the negative impact of chronic stress at an early age, and how caring adults can help even in difficult situations.
Learn about the importance of language and literacy development for infants in this BabyTalks video. Listen as the presenter shares information about topics such as key stages in language development and how social interactions support language growth.
For infants and toddlers, school readiness refers to their developing capacity to self-regulate, demonstrate curiosity, communicate effectively, and develop close, secure relationships. Good health and proper nutrition support this developing capacity. This happens within the context of nurturing, culturally responsive relationships with parents, caregivers, extended family, and community.
This short video explores the impact of adults on the growth and development of infants and very young children.
Learn about the importance of supporting early bonding and attachment child-parent relationships and child-caregiver relationships. Explore strategies useful for Head Start center-based, home-based, and family child care program options.
In this News You Can Use, we discuss ways teachers, home visitors, family child care providers, and families can be more intentional in how they support young children’s early science learning—and school readiness.
The webisodes in this series offer key messages and helpful resources to get staff started with the youngest children and their families. Managers can use Early Essentials to design orientation experiences or staff can participate on their own.
Find out how adults can support infants’ and toddlers’ motor development. Learn ways to promote daily, individualized opportunities for movement and active play.
Discover more about infant and toddler language development. Hear tips on how to support this development, including for children who are dual language learners.
Explore what school readiness means for infants and toddlers. Learn how secure relationships with adults supports children’s development and learning.