The brain undergoes remarkable change in early childhood. Brain development begins in the womb, and much of the work is reserved for the first few years of life. Brain development is shaped by experience; this is especially true in early childhood where environmental influence can impact long-term developmental trajectories. An understanding of brain development helps explain young children’s tremendous capacity for learning, behavioral regulation, and socioemotional competence.

Early Brain Development

Brain development begins soon after conception. Within the first few weeks of conception, the neural tube develops and will eventually form the brain and spinal column. The major developmental task of the neural tube is to grow neurons, and this is achieved at a rate of 100,000 to 250,000 per minute. Neurons then specialize and migrate to ...

  • Loading...
locked icon

Sign in to access this content

Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL

  • Watch videos from a variety of sources bringing classroom topics to life
  • Read modern, diverse business cases
  • Explore hundreds of books and reference titles