Is Your Child’s Brain Getting What It Needs? Why the First Five Years Matter Most

26 June

From the moment a baby is born, and even before, something incredible is happening inside their brain. Billions of brain connections are forming every second, setting the stage for everything they will learn, feel, and experience later in life. These early years aren't just a phase; they're the foundation for everything that follows.

At Jane’s Place Early Learning Centre, Alexandria, we see this brain-building magic every day. We understand how crucial these early years are, and we know how much of a difference an early childhood education program can make. That’s why we’re here, to partner with you in giving your child the best possible start.

The Brain Builds Fast and Early

By the time your child turns three, their brain will have made around 1,000 trillion connections, more than at any other time in life. These connections are built through everyday moments: smiles, songs, stories, hugs, play, and even the sound of your voice. Every laugh and cuddle helps shape how your child thinks, feels, and relates to others.

But just like a house needs strong framing to stand tall, your child’s mind needs a solid base built in the early years. Without it, learning at school and managing emotions can be harder down the line.

Why These Years Matter More Than You Think?

It’s not just about learning letters or numbers. Early childhood is when your child begins to understand emotions, build trust, and form the skills they'll need to solve problems and form relationships. It’s when they learn how to feel safe, how to express themselves, and how to explore the world around them.

And while every child is unique and may grow at their own pace, one thing is clear: the support they get early on matters.

Here’s what happens during the early stages:

Before birth, your baby’s brain is already starting to take shape, and their senses begin to work.
By 6 months, they start reading your face to understand feelings. They learn what smiling means, what a frown might signal, and how you react to their cries or giggles.
By 9 months, their brain starts connecting sights, sounds, and touch. Every day, play becomes a rich learning moment.
By age 3, their brain is packed with connections, more than at any other time in life. What they experience now sets the tone for future learning.
Between 3 to 5 years: These connections start to settle and strengthen, getting them ready for school. If they’ve had loving support and positive learning opportunities, they’ll have the tools to step into school with confidence.

What can you do to Support Healthy Brain Growth?

You don’t need fancy gadgets or apps. What your child needs most is you, your time, your voice, and your attention. They also benefit from being in environments that support healthy growth.

Here’s how you can help:

Talk, sing, and read with your child every day.
Give them space to explore safely and ask questions.
Be present, your attention matters more than you think.
Encourage play. Play is how young children learn best.
Choose an early childhood learning centre that supports emotional, physical, and mental development.

We’re Here to Support You and Them

Choosing an early childhood education program isn’t just about finding care. It’s about finding a place where your child’s development is understood, supported, and celebrated. At Jane’s Place Early Learning Centre, Alexandria, we’re proud to offer a caring and engaging environment where your child can grow.

Our rooms are designed to feel like a second home, comfortable, safe, and full of opportunity. Our educators understand child development and know how to support each child’s individual needs. Whether your baby is just 6 weeks old or getting ready for school, our early childhood learning centre provides the right mix of care, play, and learning.

The first five years don’t wait, and neither should we. Give your child the strong start they deserve.

Contact us today to learn how Jane’s Place Early Learning Centre, Alexandria, can support your child’s early growth through the power of play, connection, and learning.