Discover the main things that shape a child’s neurological development during their first seven years.
an Introduction to Neuroscience in Early Years
Skills covered in this course
Learn how brain development impacts children in the early years
In the first few years, the brain builds at a huge pace. In fact, about 90% of its growth happens before a child turns three. Learning self-control early on is one of the most important foundations. It helps children stay regulated, focus their attention, and manage what they feel, even when emotions run high. When early years professionals have some understanding of neuroscience, it can make a real difference to the progress, wellbeing, behaviour, and overall outcomes for the babies and children they support.
In this course, you’ll explore how neuroscience connects to early brain development, how the “social brain” takes shape, and what you can do to help children practise self-regulation. You’ll also look at how special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) may influence a child’s ability to regulate their emotions and behaviour.
This is a Technical Specialist qualification, so you’ll need to be working in a suitable childcare environment to meet the knowledge requirements of the course.
Is This Course Free?
You can usually study for free because this course is funded through the government’s Adult Skills Fund. Whether you’re eligible depends on the criteria set out below. If you don’t qualify for funding, you can still join in by selecting the 'Buy Now' option above.
Fully Accredited Course
This course is accredited by NCFE CACHE, an educational charity with more than 170 years of experience. NCFE is recognised by the UK Department for Education and is regulated by Ofqual.
Progression Opportunities
Completing this course can support roles like: Teaching Assistant (£11,500 to £23,000) Nursery Worker (£14,000 to £24,000) Learning Mentor (£14,500 to £25,000)
How Long is the Course?
The course takes seven weeks to complete. We call our online courses 'flexible learning' because they’re built to fit around your work and your home routine. Once you enrol, your online platform will show your deadlines so you can stay organised and on track.
By the end, you’ll understand how the brain develops early on, including the physical changes happening in the body and how those connect to the development of the social brain. The learning is organised into two units:
- Understanding neuroscience in early years
- Understanding self-regulation and learning how to support it in children from birth to seven years
What will I learn?
By the end, you’ll understand how the brain develops early on, including the physical changes happening in the body and how those connect to the development of the social brain. The learning is organised into two units:
- Understanding neuroscience in early years
- Understanding self-regulation and learning how to support it in children from birth to seven years
Eligibility Criteria
This course is funded by the government. To be able to study for free, you’ll need to meet the requirements below:
- You currently live in England
- You must be aged 19 or over
- You must not be enrolled on an apprenticeship
- This is a Technical Specialist qualification. You should be employed in a relevant childcare setting to complete the knowledge tasks in this course.
Some additional conditions may apply depending on where you live. If you enrol and then don’t complete the course or withdraw, there is a £125 cancellation fee. This is used to cover administration costs.
Not eligible for free study?
Go ahead and purchase the course, then start learning today. You can also choose flexible payment options.

[
{
"value": "90%",
"description": "of brain growth happens before the age of 3."
},
{
"value": "3x",
"description": "increase in brain weight during the third trimester."
},
{
"value": "2x",
"description": "the number of synapses in a brain at age three compared with adulthood."
},
{
"value": "> 1m",
"description": "new connections formed in an infant’s brain every second."
}
]
Masterclasses
At times, you may be asked to join mandatory online masterclasses as part of your programme.
Enrolment Paperwork
You might need to complete and return enrolment paperwork that the college or training provider emails you, so your enrolment can be fully confirmed.
Studying made simple!
We don’t really believe learning has to feel complicated… Our courses are set up to work around your job and your home life.
[
{
"title": "Submit your enrolment form",
"description": "Once you submit, you’ll get access straight away to start your course."
},
{
"title": "We'll start processing your funding application",
"description": "A tutor will be assigned to support you while you study. You can contact them by phone, text, or email."
},
{
"title": "You'll receive text reminders when your work is due",
"description": "Your work will be marked by your Tutor and sent back to you within 7 days."
},
{
"title": "Submit your work",
"description": "When you’ve finished the course, we’ll request your certificate. It will be posted to your home address within 6 months of completing."
}
]
Need support enrolling?
If you’d like a hand with enrolling, or you want to check that this is the right course for you, just add your details below. Someone from the team will get back in touch.
Certification Process
Complete all the classes
Attend classes, ask questions, and finish your homework. We check your activity and support your learning journey every step of the way.
Get the Summary Notes
Receive high-quality supporting documents, summary notes, and recommended readings. Ensure you have access to all tools and resources.
Complete 100% Impact
Complete the final assessment to validate your learning. Earn your certificate and share your achievement with your professional network!
This Course Includes:
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