Information on Child Development

The benefits of early learning programs are numerous. A child’s ability to think, form relationships, and live up to his or her full potential is directly related to the connected effect of good health, good nutrition and appropriate stimulation and interaction with others. Scientists have shown the importance of early brain development and the need for positive stimulation, good health and nutrition.

Children who participate in early learning programs tend to be more successful later in school, are more competent socially and emotionally, and show higher verbal and intellectual development during early childhood than children who do not participate in early learning programs.

Ensuring healthy child development, therefore, is an investment in your child. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “the brain undergoes its most rapid development in the first three years of life, and in this development the environment plays a central role. Nerve connections that are associated with specific skills such as language are developed during this critical period.” Children need quality care and education in the first years of life to develop to their full potential.

For more information about child development, visit the following websites:

• PA American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Pediatrics
• Born Learning
• Parents As Teachers
• Zero to Three

Basic Developmental Milestones