How can we use our burgeoning knowledge to assure the well-being of all young children, for their own sake as well as for the sake of our nation? Drawing from new findings, this book presents important conclusions about the whole notion of nature-versus-nurture, the importance of early relationships, social and economic trends affecting young children, the impacts of early interventions, as well as other key issues.

The committee -- drawing on leading experts in the field -- issues a series of recommendations to decision makers regarding the mental health of young children, the quality of child care, children's economic well-being, the balancing act between paid work and meeting children's needs, issues of racial and ethnic diversity, and more.

Authoritative yet accessible, Neurons to Neighborhoods presents the newest evidence about early brain development and how children learn to speak, think, get along with others, and regulate their behavior. It examines the effect of the surrounding context -- family, child care, community -- within which the child grows.

Are the early years a time of vulnerability or resilience? To what extent are our future prospects constrained by how well we navigate them? How can we get all children off to a good start in life? When should we worry? The committee provides a framework for approaching such vital questions and explores how scientists knowwhat they know about childhood development.

This timely release will be important to all those who care about children and their families: policy makers, educators, researchers, program administrators, advocates, journalists, caregivers, and parents.