We know the first five years are a crucial time in a child’s life. Early experiences, such as family relationships or exposure to trauma, shape brain architecture, which lays the foundation for children’s learning, behaviour and health.
Worryingly, a significant proportion of young Australians are not getting the positive early experiences they need. As of 2024, almost 25% of Australian children were identified as “developmentally vulnerable” by the time they start school. This means many children lack the self-regulation, thinking, language, resilience, and social skills needed for learning and getting along with their peers.
