School Learning
Formal education and structured environments that build foundational knowledge and skills.
DFE Whole-Child Development Framework
Understanding Development Across Childhood
Children grow and learn across multiple contexts that shape who they are and who they can become. Our framework integrates these contexts to provide a comprehensive view of whole-child development.
500+ Development Indicators
Out-of-School Learning
Enriching experiences beyond the classroom that foster curiosity, creativity, and real-world skills.
Everyday Life
Daily experiences at home and in the community that shape character, habits, and well-being.
Development across time
- 01Prenatal
Family preparation & prenatal readiness…
- 020–3 Years
Safety, attachment & early foundations…
- 033–6 Years
Curiosity, exploration & life skills…
- 046–12 Years
Learning, social skills & confidence…
- 0512–18 Years
Identity, independence & critical thinking…
- 0618–22 Years
Career direction & real-world experience…
Research Foundations
Research-Informed.
Practice-Oriented.
Our work draws upon research across multiple disciplines to understand how children grow, learn, and thrive—and to translate that knowledge into practical solutions.
Child Development
Growth and developmental pathways across the lifespan.
Learning Sciences
How people learn—and how evidence can improve learning.
Educational Psychology
Cognitive, emotional, and social influences on behavior.
Neuroscience
Brain development as a foundation for education and well-being.
Family Education
Families and relationships as foundations of development.
Our information sources
Evidence from leading institutions worldwide
Harvard University
Stanford University
UC Berkeley
EERA
AERA
CASEL
World Education Research Association
Our frameworks and resources are informed by high-quality research, data, and peer-reviewed publications.
We continually review and integrate the latest research so our frameworks, tools, and resources remain grounded in the best available evidence.
Partner with us
Stronger Together.
Greater Impact.
We invite institutions and scholars to contribute high-quality research and expert insights that advance our understanding of children’s development and improve outcomes for all.
We welcome your partnership.
Share research, data, or expert guidance with our center to help build evidence-based solutions that make a meaningful difference.
Contribute research
Share high-quality research and data to expand the knowledge base for child development.
Provide expert insight
Bring specialized expertise to our frameworks, tools, and practical resources.
Amplify impact
Strengthen the evidence behind solutions and extend their reach worldwide.
Build a better future
Create stronger outcomes and opportunities for children and families together.
Interested in contributing or collaborating?