Advances in neuroscience and in understanding human development have made it possible to suggest strategies that can promote healthy brain development.  Public policy makers, business and community leaders, caregivers and others can apply this new knowledge to a broad range of programs and services for children.  Implementing simple strategies so that children become successful early learners eliminates the need for expensive downstream remediation.

Mismatch of Opportunity Versus Investment

 Adapted with permission, B. Perry, M.D., Ph.D., 2006

The human capacity to develop and change is greatest from birth to five years old when the brain is most malleable and able to change in response to education and stimulation.  However, public investment in education is lowest in early childhood, creating a mismatch between the investments made and the opportunity for improvement.  As a result, there is a great demand for expensive remedial programs to address learning and behavior problems in later years when change is far more difficult to achieve.

Studies show that maltreated children have elevated levels of stress hormones even on a normal day when nothing stressful is happening. This is especially true for those children who experienced long-term chronic abuse or neglect.

Source:  Dr. H. T. Chugani, Newsweek, Spring/Summer 1997 Special Edition:  "Your Child:  From Birth to Three", pp 30-31.

The Upstream Solution

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This six-minute video, narrated by Hugh Downs, elaborates on prevention strategies that promote better outcomes for children.

Early Childhood Development and Health Fund

Arizona voters recently approved a statewide proposition First Things First that establishes an Early Childhood Development and Health Fund that will be funded by revenues generated by an increase in the state tax on tobacco products, donations and state appropriations.  The state tax on cigarettes will increase by 80 cents per pack.  The fund will be administered by a new board appointed by the Governor.  Check here for the latest updates on the new Early Childhood Development and Health Fund.