Scientifically-based research has provided both parents and educators with a new understanding of children's rapid brain development from the beginning. Researchers have proven that children who experience just one year in a high-quality learning environment experience significant positive developmental gains compared to children who may not have the advantage of quality care.
Michigan remains on the forefront of using the research to support the implementation of high quality early care and educational programs for very young children. Parents are recognized as their children's first and most important teachers. Parent programs provide support and education for families who choose to participate. Research is also telling us that program quality plays a significant role in outcomes for children.
The Michigan Department of Education, Early Childhood & Parenting Programs supports initiatives to assure that our very young children have access to environments that are nurturing, facilitative and supportive of each child's individual interests and needs. Environments where responsive authentic adult-child interactions are the standard sustain the aspiration that all children will become productive members of a democratic society.
Information and Research
Abecedarian Study
A Powerpoint presentation of North Carolina University's Abecedarian study linking quality educational child care starting in infancy with positive adult outcomes may be downloaded.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Brainwonders: Helping Babies Grow and Develop
This site is designed to provide parents, caregivers and pediatric and family clinicians with meaningful information about early brain development and the relationships between babies and their parents and caregivers that support intellectual and social-emotional development. The site is a collaborative project of ZERO TO THREE, Erikson Institute and Boston University School of Medicine.
Child Development Ages and Stages - The National Network for Child Care
Study of Early Child Care (SECC) and Youth Development
- The most comprehensive child care study conducted to date to determine how variations in child care are related to children's development. This study is supported by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) through a cooperative agreement (U10) that calls for a scientific collaboration between the grantees and NICHD staff.
Michigan Early Childhood Organizations
National
Early Childhood Organizations
Parent Resources
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