Climate change and the foundations of lifelong development

In this talk, Dr. Cuartas will introduce a conceptual framework for understanding how climate change, through its effects on physical environments, societies, communities, and families, can influence young children’s development. He will share findings from a systematic review that synthesizes emerging evidence linking climate change and child development, as well as recent studies providing causal evidence that atypically high temperatures can impair young children’s cognitive and socioemotional skills, which are foundational for later learning. Dr. Cuartas will integrate this evidence to highlight key directions for future research and discuss implications for educational and developmental policies and practices aimed at protecting young children and fostering healthy development across the life course.