FOR BABIES:
Brain & Heart Science
"Both the stress response and the reward networks in the brain are shaped by relationships in early childhood - in healthy and unhealthy ways" - Dr Bruce Perry
We need at least two fundamental things to care for a new human. First, the safety of supportive relationships. Second, a sound understanding of what matters most for healthy brain and personality development. We can improve both of these for parents of all cultures and socio-economic categories.
1. KNOWLEDGE
What matters most in the first months of life? Pediatricians mainly cover health and nutrition. Project BrainHeart adds the most relevant modern science on brain development and developmental psychology - in simple words and pictures.
BRAIN: The parts most crucial to behavior, and how they work
DANGER: The effects of stress and regulation in organizing behavior
LOVE: The role of attachment bonds in shaping personality
SAMPLE MATERIALS
2. SUPPORT
The demands of a newborn human are such that an adult or two cannot meet them alone. Without the help of a trusted community, we are quickly too depleted or too confused to be as responsive as babies need us to be.
HOME VISITING PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY GROUPS
HOTLINES
[TALKLINE supports San Francisco Bay Area parents]