At birth, the brain is remarkably unfinished. The parts of the brain that handle thinking and remembering as well as emotional and social behavior are very underdeveloped.

In the early years, a child develops basic brain and physiological structures upon which later growth and learning are dependent.

The brain operates on a "use it or lose it" principle. Emotionally and socially as well, the child develops many of the abilities upon which later social functioning is based.

The brain matures in the world, rather than in the womb; thus young children are deeply affected by their experiences.

Their relationships with parents and other important caregivers; the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings they encounter; and the challenges they meet, affect the way a child's brain develops.

Stable relationships can ameliorate damage caused by poverty or other difficult environments. The earlier and steadier the intervention, the better.

Provided by: First 5 Placer Children and Families Commission

www.first5placer.org