the early years has become part of our thinking in Early Childhood Care & Development. The 2nd Stage to emerge and only in the last 10 years-School Readiness-the realization that children do not enter school equally prepared to learn has shifted attention on early influences that account for these differences. The third stage is now underway as I write- the growing realization of the depth and vulnerability of young children’s emotional lives. Early Childhood was always seen as a period of carefree joy and delight but growing scientific evidence indicates otherwise. Young children can be depressed and can show signs of stress now challenges the traditional view of a carefree childhood. Today with our growing awareness of early social and emotional understanding these influences are transforming our thinking about young children and with practical consequences. Research on developing brains and minds has changed the public conversation about Early Child Care/Education.