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News and Observer Chapel Hill: Opinion July 7, 2015 What’s so important about the early years? By Ennis Baker and Linda Foxworth- Guest column Our future as a community is inextricably linked to how we, as adult citizens, work to foster the health and well-being of the next generation. In our jobs, we have the privilege each and every day to meet Orange County’s future in our offices, classrooms and neighborhoods across the county. Regardless of their age, when we see these children play, learn, and grow, we see the future prosperity of our community. The good news is – we know exactly what we need to do in order for all children to thrive. A child’s brain is built from before birth. By the time a child is three, about 85 percent of their brain is developed. By age 5 that number is 99 percent. New insights from research over the past four decades have shown that children’s early experiences literally shape the way the brain is built. We think of the development of a child’s brain like the construction of a house. We know if we expect a house to stand the test of time, it needs a strong foundation to support the walls and roof. The same goes for the foundation of a child’s developing brain – they need positive early experiences to build a strong brain foundation for all future learning, behavior, and health. Early experiences need to include positive, stable relationships with adults, a safe and nurturing environment, good nutrition and healthcare, and quality early learning experiences. When Orange County fully addresses each of these areas for children, we can expect to see our children grow up to be responsible citizens and productive workers. This means that what we invest in children almost always comes back to us many times over. It also means that earlier investments help get brain architecture right the first time, which is easier and less expensive than trying to fix issues later. We have many opportunities in Orange County to make sure that every child has the environment, relationships, and experiences that are critical for healthy development. The first step has already been taken. A group of organizations in Orange County have come together to start the conversation. Over the next few weeks, you’ll see perspectives from diverse people and organizations in Orange County in the newspaper, on social media, and in your communities. We hope these perspectives will increase our community’s understanding of the importance of the earliest years for the lives of Orange County children, their families, and our entire county. We also hope you’ll join in the conversation in at least one of the many ways we’re providing! You can take part in the conversation on social media by following us on Facebook through the Orange County Health Department and on Twitter @OrangehealthNC. There will be lots of information there, as well as fun opportunities to show your support for our community’s youngest children. If you have a business,