The Challenge
Young brains undergo rapid development during the early years of life and are dramatically shaped by experiences. The biological, psychological, and social context of development are inextricably linked and combine to set the stage for success.
Yet there is still much we do not know about how our youngest learn and the conditions that help them thrive. We lack a comprehensive understanding of the many forces that shape early development. Additionally, research has focused on specific internal processes and not an integrated understanding of the whole child. Further, the system to support children is diffuse. Policies and programs are not coordinated, there is inadequate sharing of information across systems, and children of color and families without means suffer the most.
Without high-quality opportunities for our youngest children, we lose a vital opportunity to prepare our next generation to benefit from school and create positive long-term growth for the child, family, and society.
The Center on Early Childhood
The new Stanford Center on Early Childhood, launched fall 2022, is an integral component for realizing the vision of this initiative and the Stanford Accelerator for Learning. Led by Professor Philip Fisher, It brings together researchers, students, educators, and others working on the issues facing our youngest learners. The Center will be the primary hub for convenings, workshops, research, and education related to accelerating solutions for young children.