A causal test of environmental effects on the pace of brain development: Stage 1 Registered Report

Theories of neural development suggest that early experiences alter the pace of brain development with consequences for brain plasticity, but causal evidence on this question has been rare. Here, we partner with a non-profit to evaluate the effects of a 92-session strengths-based, community-led intervention for under-resourced parents and their young children. By comparing families who received the intervention to an active control group, we will assess whether changes to children’s early environments alter the developmental timing of the brain or body. This work will provide insights into whether early experiences cause differences in brain development, and will inform translational work on how to best support young children and their families.