Early Childhood Development

What is Early Childhood Development?

Early childhood development is defined by the Foundation as the process of growth that occurs prenatally through the first five years of life.

We believe that children who are born healthy, grow up in stable families, have nurturing relationships with adults, and spend time in environments that provide stimulating experiences are more likely to succeed academically, socially, and economically.

Improving the health and wellness of Spartanburg County through a focus on early childhood development will require efforts that address (1) adolescent pregnancy, (2) children’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development, and (3) children’s relationships with families and other caregivers.

For more information about how to improve early childhood development in Spartanburg County, SC, click here and here to read research papers written for the Mary Black Foundation by Anne Mitchell and Dr. Walter Gilliam.