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 Newborn Period

Photograph of a Newborn At birth, the infant brain weighs 2/3 to 3/4 pounds (300-350 grams) and contains 100 billion neurons. Only the neurons that control the basic survival functions and reflexes are completely myelinated. The newborn begins a rapid period of brain growth. The neurons controlling hearing and vision rapidly become myelinated.

Prenatal Timeline

Newborn Timeline

Early Childhood Timeline

Adolescence Timeline

Adult Timeline

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