Neuroscience and education: How early brain development affects school

Research on young children reveals their extraordinary ability to learn. Early learning prepares children to succeed in school and is a key factor in enhancing education worldwide. Regarding language and literacy, high quantity and quality of language addressed to young children, and parents’ use of the speaking style called “parentese”, are associated with advanced early language skills and reading readiness in children at the age of 5 years. Brain imaging on young infants demonstrates the importance of social interaction for the growth of language. Translational science on “parent coaching” for children’s language skills resulted in significant increases in both parental language to infants and language skills in children. A method and curriculum created for teachers to enhance early bilingual language learning ignited dual-language learning in infants aged 7 months to 3 years with 1-hour per day of instruction. Scientific studies of children’s minds and brains can positively affect education policy.