Trusted Early Childhood Development Resources for Families
At Scribbles Learning Center, we know that raising young children is a joyful journey - but it can also come with plenty of questions. Parents often wonder: Is my child on track? What milestones should I be looking for? Where can I find reliable information I can trust?
The good news is you don't have to search alone. We've put together a list of trusted, research-based resources that families can turn to for guidance on child development, milestones, play, and school readiness. These sites are backed by experts in pediatrics, early learning, and child psychology - so you can feel confident knowing the information is reliable.
National & Government Resources
CDC - Learn the Signs. Act Early.
Free milestone checklists, videos, and printable tools to help you track your child's development from birth through age 5.
Zero to Three
Research-based resources on infant and toddler development, sleep, social-emotional learning, and play.
HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics)
Pediatrician-approved advice on growth, nutrition, behavior, and safety.
NIH - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development
Up-to-date scientific findings made parent-friendly, covering all areas of child development.
Education & Early Learning
NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children)
Family-focused articles about play, learning, curriculum, and choosing quality childcare.
Head Start Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center (ECLKC)
Practical resources for families on child health, learning, and family engagement.
Harvard Center on the Developing Child
Research on brain development and resilience in young children, written in easy-to-understand language.
Parenting & Everyday Support
PBS Parents - Child Development & Early Learning
Activities, play ideas, and milestone tips with a focus on fun learning at home.
Sesame Street in Communities
Free resources to help families talk about big feelings, routines, and learning through play.
Child Mind Institute
Trusted information on behavior, learning differences, and emotional health.
How Families Can Use These Resources
Track milestones at home using CDC's free printable checklists.
Find play ideas that support learning from PBS Parents and Sesame Street.
Learn about child development research from Harvard and Zero to Three.
Get trusted medical guidance on nutrition, growth, and safety from the AAP.
At Scribbles, we believe in empowering families with knowledge. Whether you're celebrating your baby's first steps, helping your toddler manage big emotions, or preparing your preschooler for kindergarten, these resources can guide you along the way.
Want more parent-friendly resources and hands-on ideas? Explore our Crayons to Curiosity for tips on play-based learning, social-emotional growth, and preparing your child for school success.