Why Focus on Young Children?

Prevention and early intervention are key.

Efforts made at the earliest developmental stages yield the greatest likelihood for later returns on investment and achievement of strong, positive child outcomes Although there is brain plasticity throughout the lifespan, the brain’s capacity for change decreases with age.

Interventions implemented at age ten won’t have nearly the same impact they would have had if implemented at age two The brain is most “plastic” or open to change early in life; brain circuitry is hardwired once we reach adulthood.

Capacities developed in early childhood are prerequisites for later success The emotional and physical health, social skills, and cognitive-linguistic capacities that emerge in the early years are critical for success in school and later in the workplace and community.

Early intervention is critical because:

By 8 months of age, brain synapses have increased from 50 to 1,000 trillion

A child’s early experiences build the architecture of the brain. Young children who did not experience touch/connection have brains that are 20 - 30% smaller Adversity in early childhood can lead to lifelong physical and mental health problems Supportive, loving caregivers can buffer the effects of toxic stress

Learn about the developing brain: developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/brain-architecture

Neuroplasticity

Where ACEs are concerned, neuroplasticity is the good news

It refers to the brain’s ability to grow, adapt, reorganize and form new connections throughout life. Exercise, sleep, music, spending time in nature, meditation, support from family and friends, and a reduction in stress can all help the brain recover from the effects of adverse experiences

Neuroplasticity means that ACEs are not destiny; the brain can be hurt, but it can also heal

Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) are the antidote to ACEs.

- Community Resilience Cookbook communityresiliencecookbookorg