Basic Brain Science And November Elections
15-20 years from now, we'll live in a society heavily influenced by the infants, toddlers, and preschoolers of today.
It's important to look at the care they're receiving presently to see if we're doing the best we can. Our future society depends on it. Here's why:
In the first few years of life, more than 1 million new neural connections form every second. After this period of rapid proliferation, connections are reduced through a process called pruning, which allows brain circuits to become more efficient. In light of these findings, focusing on early childhood only makes sense. -Center for the Developing Child, Harvard University-
We simply can't ignore this kind of research anymore. We have to look at the earliest years and the actual experiences children are receiving during this time. It's pretty important to do our best. We can't afford to lower standards for our youngest children because research clearly shows we pay the price down the road.
That's why you matter so much to the world. If you care for infants, toddlers, and/or preschoolers for any significant amount of time, you are instrumental in shaping the architecture of their brains. Take a look at this chart from Harvard.
Whether you are an advocate for young children or a caregiver right now, if you are a US citizen, you'll have the right to vote on November 3rd, 2026. Many will vote for a new governor, as we will in Wisconsin.
This matters; check out what your candidates have to say on issues affecting caregivers, parents, and young children, and VOTE!!
Here's a link to The League of Women Voters, a great place to stay informed.
"The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy. We empower voters and defend democracy through advocacy, education, and litigation, at the local, state, and national levels." -League of Women Voters Website
Nanci J Bradley is an early childhood and family educator, author, teacher, and an all-around fun-loving person. She believes in the power of sleep, healthy eating, lifelong learning, and most of all, PLAY! (click on the word) She studied early childhood ed at Triton College and received her BS in education in 1986 from NIU. She received her MA in human development from Pacific Oaks College in 2011. She lives and teaches in Madison WI.
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