This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: We know the first five years are a crucial time in a child's life. Early experiences, such as family relationships or exposure to trauma, shape brain architecture, which lays the foundation for children's learning, behavior and health.
Worryingly, a significant proportion of young Australians are not getting the positive early experiences they need. As of 2024, almost 25% of Australian children were identified as "developmentally vulnerable" by the time they start school. This means many children lack the self-regulation, thinking, language, resilience and social skills needed for learning and getting along with their peers.
Without early intervention, problems with brain development and antisocial behavior become entrenched and can have a lasting impact. But our research, based in Australian child care centers, shows that intensive, high-quality education and care can help children catch up. Research shows high-quality early education programs can help prevent or reduce the disruptive impact of trauma and stress on vulnerable children.
In 2009, we designed a program to operate in a child care center for Australian children living with significant social disadvantage and exposure to trauma, abuse or neglect. This can include family violence or alcohol or substance abuse. We have since replicated and tested it in various locations.
To participate in our program, children are referred by community health and child protection professionals. Children attend the program for five hours a day, five days a week for three years. There is no cost to families.
The program is currently being run at three sites in partnership with three child care providers in Victoria and Queensland, with 108 children participating. The program is more intensive than usual early learning and care to match the complex needs of the children and families. Educators are supported by an expert team that includes early childhood education leaders, infant mental health specialists and social workers who work with families with complex needs.
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