Baby Photograph

Brain Basics

Overview Brain Anatomy & Function

Overview Parts of the Brain Hemispheres Lobes of the Brain Neurons Making Connections

Development Processes Development Timeline

Overview Prenatal Period Newborn Period Early Childhood Adolescence Adulthood

Role of Experience

Overview Sensitive Period Negative Experience

Child Development

Overview The Brain & Child Development Learning

Overview Infants: Birth - 12 Months Toddlers: 12 - 24 Months Children: 24 - 36 Months Children: 36 - 48 Months

Physical Well-Being

Overview Protecting the Brain Safety and Security Achieving Good Health

Overview Healthy Pregnancy Healthy Childhood

Mealtimes Matter Good Nutrition for a Healthy Brain Breastfeeding Benefits the Brain

Attachment

Overview How Attachments Form Caregiver's Role Secure vs. Insecure Challenges

Play

Overview Benefits of Play Playing with Others What Children Need

Consistency

Overview Elements of Consistency Consistency in Childcare Setting Consistent Limits Benefits of Consistency

Stress

Overview Effects of Stress Dangers of Stress Reducing Effects of Stress

Want to Know More? Click on highlighted terms to look up definitions in the glossary.

The Role of Experience in Brain Development

Photograph of a Young Child Experience is an essential component of brain development. A child's specific experiences determine which connections are strengthened and expanded, and which connections are eliminated. Connections that are used repeatedly become stronger. Connections that are not used are eventually lost to pruning. Repetition is important because it provides the child with multiple opportunities to strengthen connections.

It also is important that experiences be enriching. A child should be exposed regularly to experiences that are a little bit new and different. These experiences should be challenging, but not overwhelming, just a step beyond what he can already do.

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