The developing brain is shaped by experience, but not all experiences influence development in the same way. Some inputs are biologically expected to occur as part of typical development, while others shape the brain in more individual and variable ways. Understanding this distinction – between experience-expectant and experience-dependent development – can clarify many common questions about early learning, enrichment, and intervention.
When these concepts are misunderstood, adults may feel unnecessary pressure to provide constant stimulation or may overlook experiences that are genuinely foundational for development.
Two ways experience shapes the developing brain
Brain development unfolds through two complementary processes.
Experience-expectant development refers to neural systems that rely on certain universal experiences to develop typically. The brain is biologically prepared to receive these inputs, and neural circuits are refined based on whether they occur. These experiences do not need to be highly specialised or intensive; they are part of the environment …