To serve the Council’s primary goal of bringing credible and accurate knowledge to bear on public decision-making that affects the lives of young children, a series of publications has been created to marry the science of early childhood and brain development with state-of-the-art communications research designed to effectively translate that knowledge for non-scientific audiences.

Working Paper Series. The Council’s signature working papers discuss the scientific knowledge base around specific early childhood issues and its significance for public policy related to life long learning, behavior and health. In addition to the four posted, work is underway on papers laying out the science behind critical and sensitive periods of development as well as children’s mental health.

Commissioned Articles,  Science Briefs and Policy Briefs. In order to make the content of its working papers—as well as new research and perspectives on a wider range of issues related to early childhood—available to a broader audience, the Council produces a parallel set of journalistic articles, interviews with Council members, commentaries, and issue briefs. These provide readers with a rich, science-based context for understanding the potential impact of strategic investments in early childhood for addressing many of our nation’s most complex social and economic challenges.

Peer-Reviewed Articles. In addition, the Council and its members continue to publish peer-reviewed journal articles meeting the highest academic standards. These reflect the Council’s continued focus on maintaining scientific rigor and currency in all of its integrative work.

For articles, published works, and events by or featuring individual Council members, go to  In the News.

For information about commonly used terms in Council publications, see Definitions.