In this episode of the ELEVATE Podcast, hosts Inette Bolden and Jennifer Ferreira welcome Sylvia Hennessie, Early Childhood Coach, and Starr Stevenson, Child Care Health Consultant with Child Care Support Services, for an insightful conversation on early childhood brain development.

Sylvia and Starr break down key concepts like brain architecture, serve-and-return interactions, and toxic stress, explaining how everyday moments—talking, playing, diapering, singing, and routines—shape a child’s developing brain from before birth through the first five years of life. They emphasize that nurturing relationships and responsive interactions are just as important as nutrition and sleep in supporting healthy development.

The episode offers practical, reassuring guidance for both families and educators, highlighting how being present, intentional, and responsive during ordinary moments can have a lifelong impact. Listeners walk away with a powerful reminder: brain-building happens every day, and everyone plays a role in helping children thrive.