Week of the Young Child: Why First Five Matters

by Jessica Boehme-Flores, Senior Manager of Family & Caregiver Engagement and Saeda Fuller, Developmental Playgroup Coach

When it comes to a child’s healthy development, the first five years of life are unlike any other period. Each experience had, relationship formed, words heard and emotions learned shapes the architecture of a child’s developing brain. This knowledge drives what we do at Children’s Council of San Francisco, where we work every day to connect  families with quality child care and education, helping them to find and access the care they need. 

In recognition of Week of the Young Child (April 11-17th), we’re highlighting why the first five matter and how early support can shape lifelong outcomes for children and families across San Francisco. 

Social & Emotional Development: Learning to Feel and Connect 

Research shows that success in school and life is connected to the development of strong social-emotional competencies in the first five years of life. Kindergarteners with strong social skills are more likely to graduate high school and complete college (Jones et al., 2015). In addition, a child’s secure attachment bond to a caregiver leads to greater emotional regulation, empathy and resilience throughout childhood and into adulthood (Cicek et al., 2025). 

Children’s Council directly supports this work with our Parent & Caregiver Education programs and Developmental Playgroups, offering children of all learning abilities sensory-based, hands-on learning activities while actively partnering with caregivers to support their children’s growth at home.  

Early Literacy Begins Before Knowing the ABCs

The foundation for reading and writing begins in infancy. When caregivers read, talk to, rhyme or sing to a child, they are building neural pathways to support early language and literacy development. Children who enter kindergarten with a strong vocabulary and exposure to books are far more likely to become proficient readers by the third grade, a milestone that research from the Annie E. Casey Foundation has linked to long-term academic success (2010).

Why First Five Matters for All Children, Especially Those Facing Adversity 

Children who experience Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) such as trauma, toxic stress, poverty and instability, are more likely to be at risk for developmental delays. Children’s Council supports nearly 7,000 children annually to receive financial assistance for child care.  Thankfully early intervention via quality child care, family support programs and access to early education can shift the outcomes for children facing adversity (Shonkoff JP, Phillips DA, 2000).  

This is why programs that support families and child care providers during the first five years are essential.  When families in San Francisco are affected by unexpected disruptions, Children’s Council steps in to help families find child care because we know that stability in the early years of life is a necessity. 

Every Interaction is an Opportunity 

The first five years of a child’s life are what shape their future. An engaged caregiver who is responsive and loving, supports the foundation of a thriving child. At Children’s Council, we’re here to ensure families have access to the care and resources they need during these critical years.  

Explore our programs, find child care support or learn how you can be a part of strengthening early care and education in San Francisco.