Learn and Grow

Brains are built over time, and higher-level skills build on basic skills developed early in life. That’s why creating the right conditions in early childhood is far more effective and less costly than trying to fix problems at a later age.

Helping children learn and grow is parents’ prime responsibility – and you want to do the best job possible. Because early experiences and relationships are the foundation for future developing and learning, this part of the site provides families with useful information about child development, health and safety, and school success. We encourage you to read these materials and share them with your spouse or other caregivers.

Resources

Center on the Developing Child

Harvard University provides information on early influences—positive or negative—that are critical to the development of children’s brains.

Child Development: Centers for Disease Control

The early years of a child’s life are very important for his or her health and development. Parents, health professionals, educators, and others can work together as partners to help children grow up to reach their full potential.

Head Start Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center

Learn about Head Start in New Hampshire and locate a center near you.

Helping Your Preschool Child

A booklet that provides parents with activities to help children (infancy through age 5) become better learners and prepare for school.

New Hampshire Family-Centered Early Support & Services

Anyone who is concerned about an infant or toddler's development, including a parent, may make a referral to FCESS. The program is designed for children birth through age three who have a diagnosed, established condition that has a high probability of resulting in delay, are experiencing developmental delays, or are at risk for substantial developmental delays if supports and services are not provided.

NH Department of Education

The New Hampshire Department of Education is a committed partner supporting statewide efforts for children and schools to promote a seamless system between PreK and K-3 education.

NH Department of Education: Special Education

For children 3 and up.

Parent Information Center of NH

Provides parents with high-quality training, consultations, and resources related to both general and special education.

The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL)

The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL) is focused on promoting the social emotional development and school readiness of young children birth to age 5. CSEFEL is a national resource center funded by the Office of Head Start and Child Care Bureau for disseminating research and evidence-based practices to early childhood programs across the country.

Zero to Three

Learning begins at birth. By the time children turn three, they have already begun laying the foundation for life-long learning and success. Making the most of early learning moments can be the difference between a fragile beginning and a strong start at school. Discover more about how to support early learning in babies and toddlers.