We know the first five years are a crucial time in a child’s life. Early experiences, such as family relationships or exposure to trauma, shape brain architecture, which lays the foundation for children’s learning, behaviour and health.

Worryingly, a significant proportion of young Australians are not getting the positive early experiences they need. As of 2024, almost 25% of Australian children were identified as “developmentally vulnerable” by the time they start school. This means many children lack the self-regulation, thinking, language, resilience, and social skills needed for learning and getting along with their peers.

Without early intervention, problems with brain development and anti-social behaviour become entrenched and can have a lasting impact.

But our research, based in Australian childcare centres, shows with intensive, high-quality education and care, we can help children catch up.

How the intervention works

Research shows high quality early education programs can intervene and prevent or reduce the disruptive impact of trauma and stress on vulnerable children.

In 2009, we designed a program to operate in a childcare centre for Australian children living with significant social disadvantage and exposure to trauma, abuse or neglect. This can include family violence, or alcohol or substance abuse. We have since been replicating and testing........

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