The Strongest Start for Every Child

Why the early years matter most

The first three years of life are the most important for lifelong mental health and well-being.

We are experts in translating the science of early childhood development into real impact.

I had this traumatic birth experience that shattered my mental health for a while. That affected how I bonded with my daughter.
Elizabeth Pihlaja, MPH
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Our Focus

Learn more about the most important issues impacting babies and toddlers.
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
Racial Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Trauma
Early Learning
Early Development
Physical Health & Nutrition
Child Care
Child Welfare
Economic Security
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"This is just what I needed to reestablish my motivation in moving forward with this work."
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Latest Resources

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Fellowship Class of 2022-2024

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NPR Interview Shows Babies and Families Continue to Struggle 3 Years After the Pandemic

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Webinar: Talking Trauma With Young Children

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Child Care Provider Reading Book to Toddler

Diverse Books for All Coalition

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From birth to 3, a child’s brain produces more than 1 million neural connections each second.
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Upcoming Events

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Virtual
February 1, 2023

Critical Competencies Coaching Program

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Virtual
February 7, 2023

DC:0-5 Clinical Training

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Virtual
March 1, 2023

Virtual Critical Competencies Area 1 Micro-ToT: Supporting Social-Emotional Development

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Virtual
March 6, 2023

The Growing Brain: From Birth to 5 Years Old Virtual Training of Trainers

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Virtual
March 7, 2023

The Growing Brain Basics Webinar Series

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Virtual
April 3, 2023

Virtual Critical Competencies Area 2 Micro-ToT: Supporting Cognitive Development

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Virtual
April 3, 2023

Critical Competencies Coaching Program

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Virtual
May 1, 2023

Virtual Critical Competencies for Infant-Toddler Educators Area 3 Micro-ToT: Supporting Language and Literacy Development

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Virtual
June 1, 2023

Critical Competencies Coaching Program

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Babies are born with unlimited potential, but it's up to each state to help give them a strong start.
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Your Gift Can Chart a New Path for a Child

Your donation to ZERO TO THREE helps train thousands of early childhood providers, empower millions of families worldwide and advocate for responsive policies affecting babies and their families. 

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A Closer Look

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Parenting for Social Justice

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