This video demonstrates the important relationship between brain development and early childhood experiences. A growing body of evidence demonstrates how the things we experience in the first years of life shape how our brains are built. Healthy, positive interactions between children and caregivers create sturdy brain architecture and a strong base that can support more complex structures later in life. In contrast, adverse experiences such as abuse, neglect and parental addiction can disrupt brain development. The toxic stress resulting from these experiences can have long-term negative consequences on both physical and mental health.