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October 2025

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Educator Focus

Why Ages 2–7 Deserve Your Program’s Focus

Research shows the years between roughly age two and age seven are a unique window for brain growth, and what children experience then has long-term effects on learning and behavior. For directors, that makes this period a strategic priority. Early investments in broad, play-rich programming and intentional emotional coaching pay off later in formal schooling and beyond.

What the science says, in practice

Around age two the number of neural connections spikes, creating an especially receptive brain. That surge begins a developmental phase that researchers place through about age seven. During this time children absorb language patterns, social rules, music, and sensory skills more readily than they will later. Emphasize exposure to many domains rather than early specialization. The promise of breadth over speed is key.

Practical steps for directors

Prioritize a balanced daily rhythm. Mix guided small-group work with long blocks of free play. Rotate experiences so children have regular exposure to music, movement, story, art, and early numeracy. Your schedule should allow teachers to observe and scaffold rather than rush mastery.

Invest in staff coaching on emotional literacy. Simple routines that help children label feelings and reflect on them build empathy and self-regulation. Encourage teachers to model language for emotions and to use short scripts that prompt children to name and narrate their reactions.

Design spaces for sampling

Create low-cost “discovery corners” that rotate monthly. One month might spotlight music and listening activities. The next month could center on building and early math games. These rotations give children the breadth they need to discover strengths without pressure to specialize.

Partner with families

Explain to parents why variety matters now and why steady routines matter at home. Share simple, daily practices: talk about a new word each day, sing during routines, and allow unstructured outdoor play. When families and teachers send the same message, children get consistent, high-impact stimulation.

Measure and report

Consider measurable goals for the term. Track staff coaching minutes, number of different activity domains offered weekly, and family engagement touchpoints. Small data points help you see whether the program is delivering breadth and emotional support. Share quick wins with teachers in staff meetings to sustain momentum. The investment is modest compared with the long-term gains in children’s communication, curiosity, and classroom readiness. Act now.

Based on Rishi Sriram, "Why Ages 2–7 Matter So Much for Brain Development," See the full article at www.edutopia.org
Edutopia, George Lucas Learning Foundation.

Activity of the Month!

Pumpkin Paper Plate Masks

Materials Needed:

• Paper Plates
• Orange Crayons/Paint
• Black Construction Paper
• Glue
• Popsicle Sticks (optional)

Children create their own jack-o'-lantern masks using simple materials. Provide each child with a paper plate, orange crayons or paint, black construction paper for eyes, nose, and mouth, glue, and optional popsicle sticks. Have them color or paint the plate orange, then glue on cut-out facial features. Attach a stick to hold the mask, or let them use it as a flat craft. Each pumpkin face will be unique, encouraging creativity while keeping the activity simple and festive.

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