The Science of Early Childhood
The first years of a child’s life are a period of rapid brain development, deeply influenced by early experiences, interactions and environments. That’s why high-quality early childhood care and learning environments are so important: they build the foundation for cognitive, emotional and social skills that help children succeed now and in the future.
Nurturing neural connections
In infants, new brain synapses occur at an astonishing rate. Early experiences are wired into the developing brain and form the foundation for emerging functions, including language, logic, memory and behavioral control. These neural connections become strong and more resilient through positive, stimulating interactions with loving adults at home and in quality care settings.
Preparing for kindergarten success
Preschool-age children thrive through interactions with parents and caregivers that stimulate their growing grasp of language, numbers and problem-solving. By age 3, children begin to learn social skills that help with decision making and getting along with others.
As children enter kindergarten, the quality of their early learning experiences becomes evident as they interact with peers and teachers. Children who can focus, control impulses and take turns, for example, are on their way to becoming successful students. Children who have not developed these skills may need interventions to help mitigate inadequate developmental experiences during their earliest years.
School-age and beyond
We can make the most of children’s early developmental years by ensuring they have consistent, high-quality experiences that align with educational efforts from preschool through third grade. Coordinated learning experiences help ensure children make lasting cognitive and social-emotional gains that put them on the path to lifelong success.
What is ‘quality’ in early childhood?
Quality early childhood experiences are those in which children are physically safe and emotionally supported through frequent, warm, one-on-one interactions with caring adults who engage them in language-rich and educational activities. High-quality early care and education promotes the well-being of early childhood professionals, empowers parents as educators and caregivers, and fosters children’s healthy development and learning. These experiences are made possible through policies and practices that support ongoing quality improvement wherever children are cared for.
Featured Publications
Help Build a Better Future for Nebraska’s Children & Families
For the past nine years, First Five Nebraska has been investing in advocates—people with conviction and a readiness to take the next step in their advocacy journey and move from personal passion to public policy. The magic of policy advocacy and community organizing...
Governor Signs LB304 into Law; Legislature Adjourns Sine Die
The second session of the 109th Nebraska Legislature adjourned sine die April 17, wrapping up a busy 60-day, second session in the biennium. State senators introduced 547 bills this year, adding to the 715 from last year's 90-day session, for a combined 1,262 pieces...
Interim Studies Lay Groundwork for Policy Change
As the Nebraska Legislature wraps up its 2026 regular session, our work continues with the crucial role of ongoing advancements in early childhood policies. One of the ways this happens is through interim studies, which allow senators and stakeholders to gather...
State Senators Advance LB304 to Second Round of Debate
Thank you to state lawmakers for advancing LB304 to the second of three rounds of debate! We also thank State Senator Wendy DeBoer for her leadership and commitment to keeping child care assistance within reach of Nebraska families and we thank our partners and...
Celebrate National CACFP Week With Us!
It's National CACFP Week, a celebration sponsored by the National CACFP Association to raise awareness around the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). The program goal is to combat hunger and promote a healthy diet and...
Child Care Assistance Legislation Advances to the Floor
Last week brought significant positive developments for LB304. First Five Nebraska thanks members of the Nebraska Health and Human Services Committee for advancing LB304 to the floor, and the Appropriations Committee for providing funding and folding the language into...