Importance of early childhood development

By magat

The foundation for lifelong learning, behavior, and health is laid early in childhood. Early childhood
experiences shape a child's brain and his or her ability to learn, get along with others, and respond to
daily stresses and challenges. There are a few key aspects to understand when it comes to early brain
development:

Beginning in the last trimester of the prenatal period, brain pathways are formed by developing new
connections. This growth increases after birth and follows a predictable sequence (McCain, Mustard &
Shanker, 2007; National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 2007)

Newborns have brains and brain regions that are quite similar.

The wiring of the brain connections is established through providing responsive, caring, and engaging
experiences. Children who are well-supported and nurtured physically, emotionally, socially, and
intellectually develop a plethora of neural connections that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Human development is intricate, with all aspects intertwined. Early human development has been
artificially divided into developmental domains in most texts and writings. This classification can help
specialists ensure that all aspects of a child's development are monitored and supported, allowing him
to reach his full potential. All fields or sectors of development are interrelated, and professionals must
keep this in mind. Learning to speak, for example, is usually classified as a language skill, but it also
involves physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.

A child's overall healthy growth is influenced by a number of interconnected elements. Education,

health, social position, housing, access to exciting early learning environments, enough nutrition, clean
water, and a stable and supportive parent-child relationship are all factors. Given the significance of a
kid's early years in moulding his or her brain development, every child has the right to an enriched and
supportive environment in order to attain his or her full potential.

As a child’s development occurs on a continuum, the most effective and comprehensive way to assess
children is through observation. Observation is “the process through which data are gathered about a
child’s overall development, learning styles, interests, attitudes, and behaviours” (Vaclavik, Wolanski, &
Wannamaker, 2001, p. 10)

Source: https://www.beststart.org/OnTrack_English/1-importance