Unlock The 4 Critical Secrets of Learning 0-3

Science now understands the significance of the first few years of life regarding learning. The neural connections formed and strengthened during that critical period shape the brain's architecture.

A strong foundation can mean a lifetime of learning. A weak one can mean many missed opportunities.

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-

Science has also identified specific strategies that can help the baby's brain develop.

Unfortunately, there is a huge gap between what the scientific community accepts as evidence-based research and the information that reaches the people who actually care for children.

Early Childhood Rocks is a nonprofit organization with a mission to change that as quickly as possible. We understand the critical factors science has identified in the first few years, and we also know how hard it is to ensure their consistent implementation in a world that devalues early learning and the support we provide for it.

We know this because, along with years of study and research in early childhood care and education, we have clocked 5 decades of hands-on work in teaching and caring. A chance to see if the methods outlined by science can work in the real world of child care and education.

Two things to note: excellent adult-to-child ratios and loving caregivers are needed, but when provided, these methods do work. If you are that loving caregiver, we want to make it as easy and clear as possible for you to use what science is teaching us to do.

Here are 4 scientifically-proven strategies that enhance early brain development. These strategies require time and dedication. The more often they're engaged in, the better the results. They are:

• Creating Connections

• Identifying Feelings

• Supporting Play

• Setting Boundaries Without Blame

We have put them altogether for you to have and to keep forever. And our guide is free!

Since you made it this far, we want you to know that we would love to have you in our community.

Join us here, and we'll send you one new tip each week that you can use right away. We're all about respect for caregivers, and we'd welcome you with open arms! You'll also get a copy of Birth-3 Brilliance and Magic Words that you're welcome to share with others as often as you'd like.

But here's our secret. Today only, if you visit our website and click on the little black star, you can get a preview of our entire Birth-3 Brilliance guide for free.

This presentation is designed for parents, teachers, grandparents, nannies, and all other caregivers. Citations for the evidence-based research used are included for your reference.

This document is free and offered as a community service to those who can make the best use of it. Share it as you see fit!

Nanci J Bradley is an early childhood and family educator, author, teacher, family aerobics instructor, and all-around fun-loving person. She believes in the power of sleep, healthy eating, lifelong learning, and most of all, PLAY!  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.