Five Phases of Brain Development: New Study Highlights Why the Early Years Matter
A new research study has taken a deep look at how our brains change from birth all the way to age 90, and the results are really interesting. Instead of one long stretch of “growing up,” the brain actually moves through five distinct phases, with major shifts happening around ages 9, 32, 66, and 83.
These turning points mark moments where the brain reorganises itself and moves into a new stage of development.
What did the study find?
1. Birth to 9 years:
Huge amounts of growth and rewiring. Children's early experiences have a big impact on how brain networks form.
2. 9 to 32 years:
Surprisingly, the brain keeps maturing right into our early 30s. Networks become more efficient and more specialised during this long “adolescent” phase.
3. 32 to 66 years:
A long period of steady, slower change across adulthood.
4. 66 to 83 years:
Early ageing brings more noticeable shifts in how different parts of the brain communicate.
5. 83 to 90 years:
Only a few brain-network changes continue into late life.
Why is this useful for our work?
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It highlights just how important the early years are for setting lifelong foundations.
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It shows that development doesn’t “end” in the late teens, something many of you see first-hand when working with young parents and families.
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It aligns with what we know about culturally safe, equitable, and trauma-informed support: early environments and relationships matter deeply for long-term outcomes.
Read the news article here: The adolescent brain phase lasts until our early 30s: study
The full PDF of the study is attached below if you’d like to explore it further.
We’d love to hear your reflections
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Did anything from this study surprise you?
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How does this align with what you see in your community or your project?
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Do these findings spark any ideas for practice, partnerships, or advocacy?
Your insights and experiences help all of us learn.