The First Five Years
The first five years of life are very important for brain development. During this time, the brain grows quickly, making millions of connections every second and about 90 percent of brain development happens during this time. Early experiences help shape how the brain develops.
Build the Brain Through Connection
Positive interactions with caring adults help build a strong foundation for learning. One important way to support this is through serve and return interactions. When a child makes a sound, points, or shows interest, a caring adult responds with words, eye contact, or touch. These back-and-forth moments help build brain connections and support communication.
Support Language Development
Children learn language by hearing and using it often. Reading books, telling stories, singing songs, and talking throughout the day all support brain development. Repeating words and ideas helps children build strong communication skills over time.
Support a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle supports brain growth. Sleep, good nutrition, physical activity, social time, and limited screen use all play a role. When these needs are met, children are better able to focus, learn, and manage their emotions.
Sleep is especially important because it helps the brain process what was learned during the day. Movement also supports brain development. Simple games like “red light, green light” help children practise listening, focusing, and controlling their actions.
Understanding Executive Functioning
The brain develops step by step, with the part responsible for thinking and problem-solving developing last. This part helps with skills like managing emotions, controlling impulses, and solving problems.
Young children are still learning these skills and need support from caring adults. When a child is upset, they may not be able to think clearly or make good choices. A calm and caring adult can help the child feel safe and learn how to manage their feelings over time.
Children do well when they can. When they struggle, it is a sign they need support. With time and guidance, children build the skills they need to succeed.
Additional Information
- > Executive functioning skills include managing emotions, controlling impulses, and solving problems.
- > These skills develop over time through modeling and support from caring adults.
- > Children may have strong reactions to small changes and need help learning how to cope.
Resources
- > Serve and Return
- > Brain Architecture: An Ongoing Process That Begins Before Birth
- > The Growing Brain from Birth to 5 Years Old
- > Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS) Learning Modules
