Early Learning and the Developing Brain: The Importance of the First 200 Days

An enthusiastic group of Virginia’s business executives and policymakers had the opportunity to hear from one of the nation’s top researchers on early brain and linguistic development as part of the 3rd Annual Executive Briefing on the Economics of Early Childhood, co-hosted by the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Patricia K. Kuhl, Co-Director of the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences and Director of the NSF Science of Learning Center at the University of Washington, presented research highlighting the critical cognitive and social development that occurs during the first 2000 days of a child's life. Her presentation was not only fascinating but a strong reminder of the importance of grounding policy and program decisions impacting young children in the science of early childhood brain development.

VECF is delighted to be able to share highlights of Dr. Kuhl’s presentation as part of our School Readiness Report Card blog series. Dr. Kuhl’s research continues to add to our understanding of how the earliest experiences impact brain development and lay the foundation for future success. We hope you will enjoy the video clips below.

Author: Patricia K. Kuhl, Co-Director of the Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences, Director of the NSF of Learning Center at the University of Washington

October 17, 2016