Cleveland, Ohio, September 29, 2025
News Summary
The American Academy of Pediatrics has released a second edition of ‘Thinking Developmentally: Nurturing Wellness in Childhood to Promote Lifelong Health.’ Authored by pediatricians Andrew S. Garner and Robert A. Saul, the book emphasizes the importance of forming nurturing relationships in early childhood and its impact on lifelong health. It provides insights on brain development and effective caregiver interactions, aiming to influence adult behavior and support children’s emotional well-being. This edition builds upon the success of its predecessor and addresses the evolving needs of caregivers.
Cleveland, Ohio – The American Academy of Pediatrics has recently published a revised and updated second edition of the book “Thinking Developmentally: Nurturing Wellness in Childhood to Promote Lifelong Health.” This edition, authored by pediatricians Andrew S. Garner and Robert A. Saul, focuses on enhancing childhood development through effective caregiver interactions.
At the core of the book is the assertion that forming and sustaining safe, stable, and nurturing relationships in early childhood is crucial for overall development. Saul, one of the authors, emphasizes that the first three years of a child’s life are critical, arguing that most foundational development occurs during this period, while later experiences serve as mere “appendices” to what is established early on.
The book aims to influence adult behavior by highlighting how childhood experiences shape adulthood. To achieve this, the first half explores the science of brain development and the intricacies of early childhood growth. Meanwhile, the second half offers insights for caregivers and communities to support children’s social and emotional well-being.
Saul notes the importance of effective community and public policy in bolstering children’s development and advocates for the inclusion of basic parenting concepts in school curricula, alongside traditional subjects like sex education. Personal anecdotes from Saul are included to illustrate the necessity of awareness and communication in parenting, making the material relatable and practical.
The revised edition was driven by the success of the first edition released in 2018, which gained considerable attention and sales. Saul has shifted his focus to consulting with the Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries in Greenwood, where he contributes to the organization’s Healing Center. In parallel, Andrew Garner has been a practicing pediatrician at University Hospitals Medical Practices in Cleveland since 2000, bringing extensive experience and knowledge into the writing of the book.
This book serves as a resource for anyone involved in the care of children and aims to provide practical information that can positively impact the lives of young children. By fostering understanding among caregivers and highlighting the crucial role of early relationships, the authors hope to inspire productivity and health that lasts a lifetime.
Key Themes in “Thinking Developmentally”
- The importance of nurturing relationships in early childhood
- The critical development that occurs in the first three years of life
- The science of brain and early childhood development
- The role of effective community and public policy in supporting childhood development
- The need for basic parenting education in schools
Background Context
The first edition of “Thinking Developmentally” was beneficial for many parents and caregivers, indicating a strong demand for continued guidance on childhood wellness. In a rapidly evolving societal landscape, the need for these updates is especially pertinent as challenges in child-rearing become more complex. The authors draw upon personal experience and scientific research to cultivate a deep understanding of the developmental needs of children, making the updated edition relevant and essential for today’s caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the revised edition of “Thinking Developmentally” about?
The book emphasizes the importance of forming and sustaining safe, stable, and nurturing relationships in early childhood, linking these experiences to lifelong health and development.
Who are the authors of “Thinking Developmentally”?
The authors are pediatricians Andrew S. Garner from Cleveland, Ohio, and Robert A. Saul from Greenwood.
What does the book argue about early childhood development?
Saul argues that most of life’s foundational development occurs in the first three years, with later experiences being mere “appendices” to this period.
How does the book intend to influence caregivers?
The book aims to influence adult behavior by highlighting the significance of childhood experiences in shaping adulthood, providing guidance for fostering children’s social and emotional well-being.
Chart: Key Features of “Thinking Developmentally”
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Safe Relationships | Emphasizes the need for nurturing relationships in early childhood. |
| Foundational Development | Focuses on the critical growth that occurs in the first three years of life. |
| Brain Development Science | Explores the latest findings in brain and early childhood development. |
| Community Policy | Advocates for effective community support and public policy in aiding childhood development. |
| Parenting Education | Supports basic parenting education as part of school curricula. |
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Additional Resources
- GW Commonwealth: New Programs Could Increase Child Care Availability in Mississippi
- Wikipedia: Child Care
- Index Journal: Greenwood Geneticist Helps Update Book About Caring for Children
- Google Search: Child Care Development
- Greenville Journal: The Sunshine House Early Learning Academy Celebrates 50 Years
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Early Childhood Education
- ND Smc Observer: Notre Dame’s ECDC Provides Childcare Services for Students, Faculty, and Community
- Google Scholar: Early Childhood Development
Author: HERE Greenwood
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