Foundation Aims to Enhance Early Brain Development

Empowering Parents: AdventHealth Gordon Launches “Build a Brain” Program

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing early childhood brain development, AdventHealth Gordon has officially launched the “Build a Brain, Build a Life, Build a Community®” program. This exciting new resource is designed to empower parents and caregivers in Northwest Georgia with crucial knowledge and tools to maximize their child’s brain capacity right from the start.

A Collaborative Approach to Brain Development

This initiative marks a significant collaborative effort among key local organizations, including the AdventHealth Gordon Foundation, the Calhoun-Gordon Community Foundation, Calhoun City Schools, and Gordon County Schools. By pooling resources and expertise, these partners are taking important steps to foster healthier, more engaged communities through informed parenting.

“Parents are their child’s first teachers, and we believe that by equipping them with the right resources, we can set the stage for a brighter future,” said Chris Self, president and CEO of AdventHealth Gordon. “The Baby Place at AdventHealth Gordon is already known for offering exceptional birthing experiences; the Build a Brain program enhances our commitment to ensuring families have access to invaluable support as they embark on their parenting journey.”

Understanding the Importance of Early Childhood Development

Research underscores the vital importance of the early years in a child’s development. A staggering 85 percent of a baby’s brain is formed within the first three years of life, making this period crucial for fostering learning and cognitive health. The Build a Brain program is based on decades of clinical research, offering a roadmap for parents to optimize their child’s development during these formative years.

“Words are food for a baby’s brain,” emphasizes Reatha Clary, director of obstetrical nursing at AdventHealth Gordon. This poignant metaphor highlights how vital communication is to a child’s cognitive growth. By engaging in conversations and interactions from the moment a baby is born, parents can dramatically impact their child’s language and vocabulary development.

A Resource for Lasting Impact

The Build a Brain program focuses heavily on the significance of parent-child communication. It aims to educate parents about their essential role in shaping their child’s brain function, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources for ongoing support. This includes tips and techniques for maximizing each interaction with their little ones, making every moment count in the developmental landscape.

“Through our partnership with AdventHealth and the school systems, we are committed to bringing programs like Build a Brain to our community,” stated David Aft, president of the Community Foundation of Northwest Georgia. “Such initiatives create a true win-win for our families and our community as a whole. Together, we are fostering an environment where informed parenting can flourish.”

An Innovative Step for Georgia

AdventHealth Gordon stands out as the first hospital in Georgia to offer the Build a Brain program to its patients and families. This pioneering effort signifies not just the hospital’s commitment to health services but also a deep investment in the community’s future.

The collaborative nature of the program ensures comprehensive support for families. As children begin to develop their unique potential, parents will have a trustworthy resource at their disposal to guide them through the often-challenging early years of parenting.

Learn More

For families eager to learn about these exciting resources, AdventHealth Gordon offers more information on its mother and baby care services through their official website. Parents can visit