Million Dollar Babies: Why Infants Can’t Be Hardwired for Success

This report from Education Sector explores the theories behind baby brain-boosting products and policies, arguing that while the first three years of life are important in the development of a child's brain, they are not as critical as some early childhood advocates have made them seem. In fact, the author argues, the social programs with the strongest evidence of positive long-term impacts, such as high-quality preschool programs, come on to the scene after the zero-to-three window has passed. Furthermore, Mead argues that the misuse of neuroscience research to fund ineffective programs for children ages zero to three may undermine public support for all types of early childhood investments, including the highly effective interventions available through high-quality preschool education programs.