Neonatal Neurodevelopment

Neonatal neurodevelopment concerns the development of the nervous system from birth to 24 months of age. It is a critical period for a child's development because the brain is the most rapidly developing organ during this time. During this window, the brain is sensitive to both pre-and post-birth influences such as nutrition, environment, learning, and health. A child’s environment, including the caregivers themselves, will greatly influence their long-term cognitive and social-emotional outcomes. Disparities in neonatal neurodevelopment can lead to lifelong deficits in health and wellbeing, so a comprehensive assessment of the child's needs and strengths during the first two years of life is essential for the best possible outcomes. Early intervention is essential to providing the highest quality of care and better long-term psychosocial outcomes.