This first film explores how early experiences shape lifelong health, wellbeing, learning, and opportunity. It shows that during the first years, a child’s brain develops at a remarkable pace, forming the neural connections that support emotions, learning, and relationships. The film underscores the importance of safe environments, nurturing relationships, and everyday interactions, such as play, in laying the foundations for healthy brain development.

Curriculum links:

• Unit 1: Children’s Development – theories, milestones, and the impact of early experiences. Neurological and cognitive development, Piaget, Vygotsky.
• Unit 3: Play and Learning – play as a driver of cognitive growth.
• Unit 4: Research and Reflective Practice – evidence on the long-term benefits of early intervention.

Classroom use:

You use this video overview to introduce Unit 1. Once the unit is complete, you can revisit this same video and ask students to identify which theories best explain the points made in the film.

Reflection questions:

Start of studying this unit

• What message stood out most, and why?

• How might this knowledge influence how adults support children?

End of studying this unit

• Which developmental theory/theories support what you saw?
• How do these theories influence practice in Early Years Settings?