In Harvard University's 2007 report on "The Science of Early Childhood Development," the importance of early childhood development was summed up this way: "Child development is a foundation for community development and economic development, as capable children become the foundation of a prosperous and sustainable society." The experts go on to explain that brain architecture and a child's learning abilities are developed over time and are subject to the influences of genes, interaction with parents and other caregivers, as well as other stimuli in their environment.
Brain function
During a child's earliest years, trillions of synapses, or connections, between the neurons are forming, creating the circuitry that will allow the brain to process information and respond to stimuli. According to the 1996 report by the Families and Work Institute, a child's brain at the age of 3 is likely to be twice as active as an adult's. And because the brain tends to shed excess and undeveloped synapses as a child approaches adolescence (in an effort to streamline for efficiency), it's important that as many synapses are charged and made permanent as possible during those early years.
Effects
The positive effects of early intervention in stimulating those developing brains before school begins has been demonstrated in many studies. In Harvard University Graduate School of Education's 2008 report, "High-quality Early Childcare = Later Academic Success?" research suggests that high-quality early child care for poor children had a significantly positive effect on their learning (particularly math and reading skills) through fifth grade. A study in the August 1992 issue of American Psychologist as well as other research efforts found that early intervention can also reduce the risk of juvenile crime.
Misconceptions
As research about early childhood development has continued to show the importance of stimulating young minds, anxious parents have sometimes taken that idea to extremes. Think of Rick Moranis' character in the film "Parenthood," and his obsession with flashcards and drilling his daughter in art history and other subjects. Simply doing puzzles, building with blocks, playing dress-up, reading with your child, taking him to different places and talking a lot with your child will get those synapses firing even more so than showing flashcards of famous landmarks.
Considerations
Because those formative years are so important to the educational and social success of the years to follow, it's critical that parents or other caregivers look for signs that children are on track developmentally. The Centers for Disease Control recommends parents start talking with their child's pediatrician if there are concerns that the child may be developmentally slow or isn't reaching the milestones his peers are reaching. Discuss screenings that can be done to either diagnose a learning disability or set your mind at ease about your child's rate of development.
Expert Insight
Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early education theories, said the importance of stimulating the young mind is as important as providing the sustenance to live. She once said, "We cannot know the consequences of suppressing a child's spontaneity when he is just beginning to be active. We may even suffocate life itself."
