Yapı Kredi's 'Yarınlara Kartopu' Early Childhood Project Highlights Brain Development Benefits

Research shows that the majority of brain development occurs between birth and age six, with 90% completed by age three and 95% by age six. Studies by Chicago University professor James Hackman estimate that each unit of investment in early childhood yields a seven‑fold return to society. A "30 million word" gap has been identified between children who experience rich dialogue at home and those with limited interaction, affecting confidence, self‑expression and gender‑equality perspectives.

Turkey's Yapı Kredi has launched the "Yarınlara Kartopu" initiative to address these gaps. According to corporate communications director Arda Öztaşkın, the program has reached roughly 620,000 users, including about 320,000 children and parents, aiming to provide equal early‑learning opportunities for the estimated 7.5‑8 million children aged 0‑6 in the country.

Neuroscientist Pınar Yeşiltay Sevim emphasizes that movement‑based, cognitive‑motor activities are crucial for building neural pathways that support not only motor skills but also social and emotional competencies. Her field study with 112 children aged 7‑9 demonstrated that structured physical‑cognitive exercises improve attention, empathy and self‑control, linking prefrontal cortex, cerebellum and limbic system activity.