Healthy roots, healthy foundations

We can compare a person’s early development to the growth of trees. For people and for trees, a strong start lays the foundation for a healthy life.

The very beginning of a tree’s life, when the roots are starting to grow, is similar to the first stage of human development - conception to about age 8. At this point in development, many factors affect future health and well-being.

Healthy roots require the right soil, moisture, sunshine and temperature to support the growth of a healthy tree.

Similarly, a child requires healthy conditions such as positive experiences, nutrition, stimulation and nurturing care to grow.

A favourable growing season can help a tree develop strong roots. Strong roots will then protect it during times of more extreme weather conditions.

Nurturing relationships and positive environments are important for children’s healthy brain growth. These also help build the child's resilience, that is, their ability to 'bounce back' from challenges and adversity.

With healthy roots, it is likely that a tree will flourish and grow to a point where it is firmly established.

A strong foundation of positive early experiences sets the child up to be able to learn, to grow and helps establish them on the path to adulthood.

As a tree grows to maturity, its health and longevity depend a great deal on whether its roots are firm or fragile. Having a healthy, full-grown tree is more likely when early conditions were positive.

Similarly, for a person, positive early environments help ensure successful growth. Children are more likely to thrive and become successful adults with a strong foundation of healthy early experiences.

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