Brains are built over time
Early childhood is a critical period when the foundations for learning, behaviour, health and wellbeing are established. Brain architecture begins before birth and builds rapidly in the early years, creating the base for everything that follows.

What surrounds children shapes how their brains develop
Children’s development is shaped by the environments and experiences around them – including their homes, communities and services. These environments create opportunities or barriers for healthy development.

Relationships and serve and return interactions build brain architecture
Responsive, back-and-forth “serve and return” interactions between children and adults are fundamental to brain development. When a child reaches out and an adult responds, it builds and strengthens neural connections that support language, learning and wellbeing.

Stress can disrupt development – support can protect it
Ongoing, unbuffered stress can disrupt developing brain architecture. Supportive relationships and consistent serve and return interactions help protect children and strengthen resilience.

Early development shapes lifelong outcomes
Early brain development influences learning, health and wellbeing across the life course, forming the foundation for future participation and contribution.

We all have a role to play
Children’s development is shaped across all the places they live, learn and play. Families, communities, services and governments all contribute to creating the conditions that support strong relationships and everyday serve and return interactions.

Early action creates stronger futures for everyone
When we invest early and support families according to their needs, we create healthier, more equitable and more connected communities – now and into the future.