ABSTRACT
This chapter helps us to understand the development of the brain from conception through to five years of age, to discuss the importance of the health and wellbeing of the Mother during antenatal and postnatal periods, and to consider the impact on the brain of infections and trauma. It also helps us to discuss the effects of child abuse on brain development, to begin to relate and discuss behaviours exhibited by young children that may have been caused by interruptions in brain development. The chapter reflects on and articulates the importance of in-depth observations in relation to children's emotional development, emotional needs and their all-round development, including providing for their individual needs within our different settings. It analyses and critiques the importance of understanding the development of the brain. The chapter provides an overview of the development of the brain from conception through to five years of age and beyond.
