The Impact of Poverty on Early Development

Poverty is more than an economic issue—it’s a developmental crisis.

Millions of young children face the devastating effects of poverty. It changes their brains, shapes behavior, and limits future opportunities. Backed by cutting-edge research and leading voices in developmental psychology, neuroscience, education, and policy, this groundbreaking volume uncovers the real impact of poverty on early development—and how we can change the trajectory of young lives.

This book explores:

• How poverty reshapes brain development and impacts school readiness
• The unique challenges facing immigrant families and the rural poor
• The intersection of race and poverty—and what it means for young children
• Evidence-based strategies for intervention, education, and policy

Knowledge fuels change. This book arms professionals, educators, and policymakers with the critical insights needed to create better futures for all children.