1. Early Brain Development
Chapter 9.1
Early Brain Development

2. The Structure of the Brain
Environment has a major impact on brain development
Parents can stimulate a baby’s senses
Learn about the world through their senses
Increased brain function is due to the quantity and quality of experiences the baby has

3. The Structure of the Brain
At birth, the brain has billions of NEURONS
Nerve Cell
Neural Pathway
Link between neurons
“Wire” the brain so that it can control different body functions and thinking
How the brain develops during the first year has effects on the baby’s whole life

4. Parts of the Brain
Each section of the brain controls a specific function
Cortex
Part of the brain’s cerebrum
Its growth permits more complex learning
Experience more input from the world, brain responds by forming more connections in the brain
Quality of caregiving affects brain growth

5. How the Brain Works
Neurons transmit information in the brain and nervous system
Neurons are connected by AXONS and dendrites
Connection between neurons that transmits instructions from the cell body to another neuron
Myelin
Fatty, substance which helps transmit information from one nerve cell to another

6. How the Brain Works Dendrite Synapse Neurotransmitter
Branchlike feature at the end of each axon that receives the electrical messages from other neurons
Synapse
Tiny gap between the dendrites where messages are transmitted from one neuron to another
Neurotransmitter
Chemical released by the axon
Acts as a messenger

7. Developing the Brain More dendrites indicate increased learning
More neural pathways give the brain more power
The increased number of connections gives the brain more flexibility
This increase is connections is the direct result of sensory input

8. How the Brain is Organized
Brain becomes organized in a unique way
Connection between dendrites and axons grow stronger, a group of neurons becomes linked together
Systems of neurons work together to influence how babies see and hear, and how they remember

9. How Caregivers Can Help
Can support the brain’s work by giving the child a stimulating environment
The child needs opportunities to see, hear, smell and touch new things
Repetition
Synaptic connections are
strengthened