Early Childhood Development and Brain Science Resources

ReadyNation also provides research materials for use by the general public that explain the brain science behind the need for high-quality experiences in the first years of life. In addition to support from the Bezos Family Foundation and its early learning initiative, Vroom, we would like to extend a special thank you to our partners at the New York Academy of Sciences, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, and the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences at the University of Washington, among others.

Resources:

Factsheets:

• What Is Early Childhood Development? A Guide to the Science (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University)
• The Brain Story (Vroom Brain Building)

Videos and Podcasts:

• Brain Wonders: Nurturing Healthy Brain Development from Birth (Zero to Three)
• Three Core Concepts in Early Development (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University)
• InBrief: The Science of Early Childhood Development (Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University)
• Janice Gruendel, Ph.D., developmental psychologist and member of the ReadyNation Brain Science Speakers Bureau, discusses the science behind preparing kids for success at an early age. Listen here. (Mission: Readiness)
• Dr. Amelia Bachleda, Director of Outreach and Education at the University of Washington’s Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences discusses neural connections and executive function.

Online Learning Modules:

The Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences (I-LABS) has created an online library of free modules to communicate the latest science of child development. The library includes short modules on topics such as early brain development and bilingualism, as well as resources like discussion guides and one-page briefs.