SCPHN at University Campus Suffolk

1. CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Introduction and link to Harvard University Child
Development Center Website
Prepared by C.Gordon 7.11.11
Pathway Lead for Health Visiting

2. Neurological Development
• A child’s brain develops rapidly in the first two
years of life, and is influenced by the emotional
and physical environment as well as by
genetic factors.
• Early interactions directly affect the way the
brain is wired, and early relationships set the
‘thermostat’ for later control of the stress
response.
• This all underlines the significance of
pregnancy and the first years of life, and the
need for mothers and fathers to be supported
during this time.
Healthy Child Programme (2009)

3. Introduction and link to
Harvard University
• The Centre draws on the full breadth of
intellectual resources available across
Harvard University’s graduate schools and
affiliated hospitals.
• The Centre generates, translates, and applies
knowledge in the service of improving life
outcomes for children in the United States
and throughout the world.
• http://developingchild.harvard.edu/about/

4. Explore the website
using this hyperlink:
• http://developingchild.harvard.edu/
• Particular areas to access are:
- Three core concepts
- The foundation for life long health (associated videos)
- Five numbers to remember about early childhood
- How early experiences get into the body
• You will also find associated documents and
presentations that you might find useful to download

5. Preparation for Wiki to take
place 1-3pm this afternoon
• Having explored the website and
gained further insight to the
neuroscience of the developing brain
and the issues that surround the
growing infant and child, discuss:
• What is our role in supporting the
healthy development of children?
• Locally, Nationally and Globally?
• The Wiki will be set up and available from Monday
pm so that all students can check their accessibility

6. References:
• Child Development Center, Harvard
University.
http://developingchild.harvard.edu/
Accessed 7.11.11
• DH and DCSF (2009). Healthy Child
Programme: pregnancy and the first
five years of life. London, Central
Office of Information.