Little Sparks, Big Starts
A suite of educational resources that aim to raise public awareness and understanding of children’s brain development. The programme brings together schools, health visiting teams, early years educators and parents to build a national movement of awareness, education and action.
From conception to age five, a child’s brain develops faster than at any other time, doubling in size in the first year alone, and we know that by the time children start school, 40% of the attainment gap is already in place.
A child's early experiences shape everything from learning and health to future happiness and opportunity.
Yet only 1 in 4 people recognise just how critical the early years is.
The good news? It’s the simple, everyday moments that matter the most. Eye contact, talking, playing – these little sparks give children a big start in life.
Little Sparks, Big Starts for....
Schools
Free curriculum-led resources to educate 7-14 year olds, and their teachers, about early brain development and the power of nurturing and positive relationships.
Health Visiting teams
Free training for professionals talking with families about early brain development and new parent hub.
Early Years Educators
A free qualification in early neurodevelopment for nursery staff, childminders and other early years professionals.
Parents
Free, accessible leaflets about early neurodevelopment and the critical role that parents play in giving their child the best start in life.
Further Learning
Extend your learning with academic research and resources about early child brain development led by experts in the sector.
