From Toddlers to Trailblazers: Supporting Healthy Development in Early Childhood

by | Aug 18, 2025 | Education, Health

Every Step Counts

From that first babble to the first day of preschool, early childhood is full of magical moments—but it’s also a time of critical brain and social development.

The first five years of life lay the foundation for lifelong success.
What happens during these years can impact a child’s:

  • Learning and memory

  • Emotional regulation

  • Physical health

  • Social skills

  • Economic mobility

According to the Heckman Equation, every $1 invested in early childhood development yields up to $7 in long-term returns—through improved health, educational outcomes, and reduced societal costs.

That makes early childhood not just a moral priority, but an economic strategy.

Why Early Development Matters

  • The brain forms over 1 million neural connections per second during early childhood

  • These connections lay the foundation for emotional and cognitive growth

  • Positive experiences—like loving caregivers, safe environments, and interactive play—boost development

  • Toxic stress (e.g. abuse, neglect, violence) can harm brain architecture, but supportive relationships can buffer those effects

Key Developmental Milestones

By Age 1

  • Babbling, responds to name, says “mama” or “dada”

  • Sits unassisted, pulls up to stand, may begin walking

  • Seeks comfort from familiar adults, expresses joy and frustration

By Age 2

  • Uses 2-word phrases, follows simple instructions

  • Parallel play, imitates adults, identifies people and objects

  • Starts asserting independence

By Age 3

  • Asks questions, knows some colors, follows multi-step directions

  • Climbs, pedals a tricycle, begins cooperative play

  • Expresses more complex emotions and tells short stories

By Ages 4–5

  • Understands rules, names some letters and numbers

  • Draws shapes, hops on one foot

  • Shows imagination, problem-solving, and empathy

Supporting Development at Home & in the Community

Healthy development isn’t just about milestones—it’s about consistent care and supportive environments.

  • ️ Talk, read, and sing daily – Language-rich interaction grows the brain

  • Encourage free play – Sparks creativity, builds motor skills

  • Create routines – Establishes safety and emotional stability

  • Prioritize nutrition and sleep – Fuels brain growth and immunity

  • Model empathy and resilience – Children mimic adult behavior

  • Promote safe exploration – Foster curiosity while ensuring safety

  • Enroll in early learning programs – Builds foundational academic and social skills

A DMV Story: Malik’s Journey

At 2½, Malik’s grandmother noticed he wasn’t speaking much. Unsure if it was just a phase, she reached out to his pediatrician and was referred to Maryland’s Child Find.

Through early intervention:

  • Malik entered a Head Start classroom

  • He received therapy from a speech-language pathologist

  • Participated in structured play and social-emotional activities

Now 5, Malik is reading short words, telling stories, and making new friends every day.

“I was scared something was wrong,” his grandmother said. “But getting help early made all the difference. Now he loves to talk!”

When to Seek Help

Every child develops at their own pace, but early support leads to better outcomes.

Red flags to watch for:

  • Missing key speech or motor milestones

  • Difficulty with eye contact or play

  • Unusual aggression, extreme shyness, or social withdrawal

What to do:

  • Talk to your child’s pediatrician

  • Ask about developmental screening

  • Contact your state’s early intervention program

Conditions like autism, ADHD, speech delays, and motor issues respond better to early diagnosis and coordinated care.

DMV-Based Early Childhood Resources

  • Maryland Child Find – Developmental screenings and services
    Visit site »

  • DC Strong Start Program – Services for children under 3 with delays or disabilities
    Visit site »

  • Virginia Infant & Toddler Connection – Early intervention for ages 0–3
    Visit site »

National Resources

Final Thoughts: One Child at a Time

From baby steps to bold strides, every child’s path is shaped by their caregivers, their environment, and their access to support.

Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, teacher, or community leader—you have the power to shape the future.

Investing in early development is one of the most cost-effective, life-affirming ways to build a stronger society—one child at a time.

Dr. Bertrand Fote, MD, MBA, FACEP, CF²
Health Equity Advocate | Champion for Early Learning

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