Scientists believe that harmful behaviours or neglect in early life can affect the brain, leading to lifelong problems. Early exposure to nicotine, alcohol and/or drugs can have devastating effects on the developing brain, particularly during the time in pregnancy when the brain is being formed.
Non-responsive, inconsistent care can set children up for intellectual, social, emotional and physical problems. We know that the absence of a reasonable amount of light in the first weeks after birth alters the development of the visual system (e.g., development of binocularity is not possible) and that the complete absence of hearing language or receiving extremely poor care will likely result in developmental deficits. But we still have much to learn about the persistence of these effects and the ability of the brain to overcome them.
In general, although some critical periods do exist, the concept of sensitive periods better explains early development. Sensitive periods are times in development when certain kinds of experiences are essential for healthy development, when the absence of some kind of stimulus results in development going awry, or off-course. Compared to critical periods, sensitive periods are generally longer and suggest that there is more flexibility in the timing of input or experience to the brain and the brain's ability to learn and develop over time.
A healthy and caring environment, however, can create opportunities for your child to develop to his or her full potential. High quality care-giving experiences, particularly for young children who have experienced abuse or neglect, can support healthy development.
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Talking Reasonably and Responsibly About Early Brain Development
Center for Early Childhood Education and Development, Irving B Harris Training Center for Infant and Toddler Development 2001