Healthy development in the early years (particularly birth to three) provides the building blocks for educational achievement, economic productivity, responsible citizenship, lifelong health, strong communities, and successful parenting of the next generation. What can we do during this incredibly important period to ensure that children have a strong foundation for future development?

Early Brain Development

Promotion of optimal early brain and child development is essential for the health and well-being of children. During these critical first few years of life, safe, stable, and nurturing relationships are critical to healthy brain development.

Safe Environments

Unintentional injuries including safe infant sleep, drowning and motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury and death for young children. Find AAP and partner resources on preventing injuries at home, in child care centers, and communities.

Power of Play

Children learn through play. Discover strategies for encouraging families to intentionally reduce screen time and increase play with their children.

Early Literacy

Explore the evidence base that supports promoting early literacy. This includes the AAP policy statement on early literacy as well as th​e AAP School Readiness technical report. Find information about the benefits of promoting early literacy and early learning for children and what you can do about it in the Books Build Connections Toolkit.

Nutrition and Food Insecurity

Establishing good nutritional habits early provide the foundation for child development. Learn how to talk with parents about nutrition, identify concerns, and provide resources to help families meet their nutritional needs.

Perinatal Mental Health and Social Support

Learn more about identifying and addressing perinatal mental health of caregivers and available social supports for families.

Developmental Surveillance and Screening

Learn more about early child development surveillance, screening, referrals, and care coordination.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Learn more about AAP recommendations for Autism Spectrum Disorder screening and patient care.

Social Drivers of Health

Learn about social drivers of health and what the AAP recommends for surveillance during patient encounters.

pregnant woman talking to a doctor

Maternal Health

The healthy development of a child starts before a baby is born by supporting maternal health and well-being. Discover AAP recommendations and resources to support birthing people.

Last Updated

11/14/2022

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics