The Preschool to Prison Pipeline Turning off the Flow

Where it Begins

Baby Brain Development 101 Early experiences – Decisive impact on brain architecture – Directly affect the way the brain is “wired” Genetics are the Interstate Highways; experience develops secondary roads Genetics provide the “trunk” lines; experience connects neighborhoods/homes

Making Connections

Building and Pruning

Relationship Skills Before 3 Years

WE MAKE FUTURE CRIMINALS From birth to three...

Baby Brain Development 201 Architecture influenced by relationships Positive connections: “to and fro” interactions – Holding, snuggling – Talking and singing – Feeding – Eye gazing – Mutual babbling

Early Childhood Mental Health Sensory nourishment (i.e., “food for the brain”) Attachment, bonding Emotional security Trust Social cue competence Body boundaries Self-soothing

Toxic Stress – What it Is Constant and prolonged activation of stress response systems – Chronic neglect – Traumatic experiences Absence of protective (i.e., caring, stable, nurturing) relationships Higher impact during sensitive periods

Toxic Stress – Causes Strong, frequent and/or prolonged adversity... – Physical or emotional abuse – Chronic neglect – Caregiver substance abuse or mental illness – Exposure to violence – Family economic hardship...Without adequate adult support

Toxic Stress – Effects Disrupted development of brain architecture Disrupted development of other organ systems (e.g., digestion, circulatory) Increased risk for stress-related diseases: – Heart disease – Diabetes – Substance abuse – Depression Cumulative toll on physical and mental health... for a lifetime

Stress In, Stress Out Nurture In, Nurture Out

WE MAKE FUTURE DROPOUTS From three to five...

Predictive Validity of ECE Graduation 3 rd Grade Readers School Readiness

Where it Began

Where it Ends – Our Choice

Action: Questions to Ask Are all early care and education programs licensed and monitored? – How well? – How often? Do we objectively and accountably measure quality of programs and share that information with parents? What are our policies for workforce qualifications and continuing education?

Thank you! We improve outcomes for children and families, ensuring that children and youth are prepared for success in school and for future participation in a globally competitive economy. L. Carol Scott, PhD Chief Executive Officer