Research & Child Development
Evidence-Based Research to Support High-Quality Early Childhood Programs
Research helps early childhood professionals make informed decisions that improve learning, development, health, and program quality. Explore trusted organizations that provide the latest research, best practices, and evidence-based resources for children from birth through age eight.
Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
Website: https://developingchild.harvard.edu
Focus
Advances research on early brain development, resilience, toxic stress, and the science behind lifelong learning.
Best For
- Child Care Owners
- Directors
- Teachers
- Families
Resources Available
- Research Articles
- Brain Development Resources
- Videos
- Guides
- Infographics
ZERO TO THREE
Website: https://www.zerotothree.org
Focus
Promotes healthy development for infants and toddlers through research, professional development, and family resources.
Best For
- Infant & Toddler Teachers
- Directors
- Families
Resources Available
- Research
- Professional Development
- Publications
- Family Resources
- Policy Updates
Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
Website: https://fpg.unc.edu
Focus
Conducts research that improves early childhood education, inclusion, and child development outcomes.
Best For
- Researchers
- Directors
- Educators
- Policymakers
Resources Available
- Research Projects
- Publications
- Inclusion Resources
- Professional Tools
Erikson Institute
Website: https://www.erikson.edu
Focus
A nationally recognized institution dedicated to advancing early childhood education through research, leadership, and higher education.
Best For
- Teachers
- Directors
- Higher Education Professionals
Resources Available
- Research
- Professional Development
- Publications
- Leadership Resources
National Scientific Council on the Developing Child
Website: https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/national-scientific-council/
Focus
Translates scientific research into practical guidance for professionals working with young children.
Best For
- Child Care Owners
- Directors
- Educators
- Policymakers
Resources Available
- Working Papers
- Research Summaries
- Policy Briefs
- Brain Science Resources
Child Care & Early Education Research Connections
Website: https://researchconnections.org
Focus
Provides access to one of the largest collections of child care and early education research.
Best For
- Researchers
- Directors
- Graduate Students
- Policymakers
Resources Available
- Research Database
- Publications
- Data Resources
- Research Tools
National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER)
Website: https://nieer.org
Focus
Conducts independent research on early childhood education policy, preschool quality, and program effectiveness.
Best For
- Program Leaders
- Policymakers
- Researchers
Resources Available
- Research Reports
- State Preschool Yearbooks
- Policy Briefs
- Data Analysis
Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD)
Website: https://www.srcd.org
Focus
Supports research that advances understanding of child development across all developmental domains.
Best For
- Researchers
- Higher Education Professionals
- Early Childhood Leaders
Resources Available
- Research Journals
- Conferences
- Publications
- Professional Resources