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← Back to all writingBefore Seven · Article 1 · 35-part series planned · The big picture

Why the first six years matter

19 min readLast updated September 2026Beginner levelOfficial-source checked

How early experience shapes development, and why change remains possible.

A mother and father stand cheek to cheek, both looking down at their swaddled newborn daughter resting against the father's chest.
Figure 1. A family holds a newborn. Everyday care gives children repeated opportunities for comfort and connection. Image for illustration.

How early experience shapes development, and why change remains possible.

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