Brain Architecture
The basics of brain development and its connection to lifelong health.
What We Know
Learn how early experiences shape our brains, our health, and our communities.
Lifelong Health is Shaped by Early Experiences
Science tells us that the experiences we have in the earliest years of our life actually change brain architecture in lasting ways. That has consequences across the lifespan for physical health and mental health, including addiction. It’s up to all of us to help kids in our communities develop strong brain architecture, and to support families where someone is struggling with a health problem related to negative early experiences.
Explore The Concepts
Select a topic to learn more about the science. Many of these topics are written using explanatory metaphors. Learn why.
Serve & Return
Positive child-caregiver interactions build strong brains.
Air Traffic Control
How children develop "executive function" abilities.
Stress
How positive, tolerable and toxic stress impact the developing brain.
Resilience
Why do some people bounce back better than others?
Adolescence
How human connections help strengthen brain connections.
ACES
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
What is Addiction?
A disease involving changes to the architecture of the brain.
Addiction Treatment
Effective approaches involve a network of support.
Addiction Prevention
Interventions to address adverse early childhood experiences.
Further Learning
Browse these featured and popular videos, websites, and learning resources.