It has been proven that a child's early years are the pinnacle at which the mind can bend and shape itself, creating the foundation for their life. We now know that even before birth, the mind is a delicate matter that, if not properly cared for, can alter a person's entire life. Nutrition and stimulation before and after a child's birth shapes the brain into its most malleable state. Medical and scientific institutes associated with parental information organizations have made information available to parents, child care providers and students to inform them of the importance of a child's brain development . This information is not only crucial for the child, but also for the person he or she will become in the future. Prenatal brain development is usually not the first topic on a pregnant woman's mind, or even on her mind! Many women are unaware of the detrimental effects certain circumstances can have on a child's development. The most obvious obstacle to brain development would be physical injury to a child. If part of the child's brain is damaged during pregnancy, the effects will almost certainly be long-term. Most pregnant women are successful in taking the necessary steps to avoid physical damage to the child's brain. Perhaps even scarier is the idea that continued exposure to stress can also permanently harm the brain development of an unborn child. The United States National Library of Medicine states that in humans and animals, prolonged exposure to stress that can be controlled by the mother can lead to abnormal behavioral, cognitive, and psychosocial outcomes. It is important for mothers to remember that they are no longer just looking after themselves. Although unborn, a lot of damage can be done... middle of paper ...... with a healthy living state. Care should be taken to limit the time a child has to explore the world around them. So many different connections are made simply by the child examining the world for themselves. This period of life is crucial for the child's future, as it builds connections to become a successful adult. Works CitedGuibert, Susan. “Modern parenting may hinder brain development.” Modern Parenting May Hinder Brain Development, Research Finds // News // // University of Notre Dame. Notre Dame News, January 4, 2013. Web. November 3, 2013. LaPlante, Charil A., DP, C. Vaillancourt and S. King. “Prenatal Stress and Brain Development.” NCBI. US National Library of Medicine, October 5, 2010. Web. 03 November 2013. Parker, Clare. “Developing the child’s brain.” Develop child's brain. International Parents Association, nd Web. November 3. 2013.