Prof. Jack Shonkoff on Connecting Science + Community to Transform Early Childhood Development

Professor Jack Shonkoff, Founding Director of Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child and Director of Connecting Science + Community, joins for a powerful conversation about the future of early childhood development (ECD). He reflects on decades of progress in making science actionable for policymakers, service providers and advocates; and shares why the next frontier must focus on the environments where families live. From poverty and housing to access to nutritious food, clean water and social capital, Shonkoff explains why community context is the missing piece in ensuring children everywhere can thrive. Key topics explored in this episode: Why ECD is a moral imperative and a foundation for a healthy, sustainable society How science — from neuroscience to immunology — is reshaping our understanding of child development Why one-size-fits-all programs fail, and how solutions must adapt to local contexts The misaligned incentives in philanthropy, evaluation and policymaking that slow progress How Connecting Science + Community is bridging research and grassroots action, with early examples of U.S. cities tackling housing, jobs and equity for children Why being “constructively dissatisfied” is essential for the field to keep advancing Professor Shonkoff emphasizes that while the early childhood field has already transformed millions of lives worldwide, the work is far from finished. Real impact will come from smarter strategies, stronger communities and a commitment to caring not only for our children but for all children. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.