Neurodevelopment from Birth to Three: Fireside Chat

Introduction

• Speakers:
  • Will Hallux
  • Jesper Nala, Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist at Foothill Family Services
• Event: Annual Conference Live at Zero to Three
• Focus: Neurodevelopment in early childhood (birth to three years)

Importance of Early Brain Development

• Key Statistic: 85-95% of brain development occurs in the first five years.
• Significance:
  • Critical period for learning and language acquisition.
  • Early interactions and interventions are crucial.

Infant and Early Childhood Therapy

• Common Misunderstanding: Therapy often associated with talking, posing challenges for infants.
• Therapy Approach:
  • Focus on parent-child dyadic therapy.
  • The child is not the sole client; the parent-child dyad is.
  • Emphasis on learning from caregivers, especially for social-emotional growth.
• Application:
  • Address trauma and behavioral challenges.
  • Support parents in teaching regulation and coping skills.

Role of Early Intervention Programs

• Example: Early Head Start (EHS)
• Services Offered:
  • Comprehensive services including mental health, nutrition, family engagement, and education.
  • Emphasis on social-emotional growth.
  • Address basic needs to support emotional development.
• Developmental Screenings:
  • Early identification of developmental delays or atypical behaviors.
  • Timely provision of services to leverage the brain's malleability.

Advice for Professionals

• Distinguishing Behaviors:
  • Typical vs. Atypical: Learn developmental milestones (e.g., CDC resources).
  • Use a trauma-informed approach to understand behaviors.
  • Encourage open communication with families.

Resources and Next Steps

• Resources:
  • Zero to Three website (zero to three.org/AC live) for related materials.
• Upcoming Sessions:
  • Next chat on critical competencies for infant and toddler educators.

Conclusion

• Thank You:
  • Appreciation for participation and insights shared by Jesper Nala.