PITT, OHSU: When early life stress occurs determines its im...( researchers believe this research shows...),Health

What this work appears to be telling us is that children separated from their mothers at birth should be placed in nurturing stable care situation as soon as possible to reduce the chances of developing socioemotional problems, explained Cameron. This differs dramatically from the real-life policies in place in most states where a child is cared for, but not paired with a permanent family a period that can last months - until a final decision is made as to whether they can be returned to their birth family.

These findings underscore three core scientific principles that guide effective early childhood policy and practice, said Jack P. Shonkoff, M.D., dean of The Heller School for Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University and chair of the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child. Early relationships are key to healthy development. Disrupted relationships have both immediate and long-term consequences. Relationship-based interventions can get kids back on track, but the clock is always ticking and the earlier the intervention the better the outcome.