About.

Learn more about our organization and the mission behind developing the Learning Begins at Birth guide.

our purpose

Learning begins at birth.

Our guide is given to the parents of each child born in Nebraska to provide information on child development, child care, how children learn, children’s health, services available to children and parents, and any other relevant information. Children’s experiences, interactions, and environments in their first years form the neural foundation on which all future development is built. The stronger that foundation, the more likely children are to lead healthy, productive and successful lives. Learning Begins at Birth contains important information for families as they work to ensure their children have a strong foundation in their early years to help them thrive throughout their lives. Learning begins at birth, and this booklet is a resource to help families as they guide their children’s development.

Download the guide.

Our goal is to provide families with resources and education to assist with their child’s development of happy, healthy, and productive lives. Click the button below to download your free guide.

Get the guide

What the guide covers.

Pregnancy and birth.

You will likely have many feelings while you are pregnant. You may feel excited, nervous, and tired. It is important to take care of yourself. Ask for help from your partner or support system when you need it. You should schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. It is also important to find a doctor for your baby (such as a pediatrician). Do not wait until your baby is born.

get the guide

Bringing baby home.

Many parents may feel sad or anxious after the birth of their baby. It is typical to feel this way for a few weeks. If you experience strong feelings of anxiety or depression, it is important to seek help. Reach out to your doctor if you need support. Eat a healthy diet and drink extra fluids, especially if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor about whether you should be taking a multivitamin or other supplement.

get the guide

1-2 years.

Routines give your baby a sense of security. When daily schedules are predictable, your baby feels more comfortable in their environment. Until about 18 months, you may find that your baby clings to you when they are put in new situations or are around new people. You may also notice your baby begin to play for a few minutes without you. They will probably look back for you to make sure you are still near them.

get the guide

2-3 years.

Routines help your toddler feel safe and secure in their environment. Toddlers learn about everyday events, procedures, and what is expected of them. Children who have effective routines are more engaged with their environment and the people around them. Your toddler will learn to anticipate changes in routines and will slowly become more independent as they learn what each routine entails.

get the guide

Have a question for us?

If you have a question regarding the guide or you are looking for additional resources, you can connect with our team by clicking the button below. We look forward to connecting with you.

let's connect

Our Location

Nebraska Department of Education

Department of Early Childhood



301 Centennial Mall South
P.O. Box 94987
Lincoln, NE 68509-4987



402-471-3184

This project was supported by the Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five Initiative (PDG B-5), Grant Number 90TP0040-01-00, from the Office of Child Care, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Office of Child Care, the Administration for Children and Families, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.