Self-control is a skill that children need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Brain regions essential to self-control are immature at birth and develop slowly throughout childhood. From ages 3 to 6 years, as these brain regions become more mature, children show improved ability to control impulses, shift their attention flexibly, and wait for a reward. Early childhood environment helps to shape self-control pathways in the developing brain. Children who experience early adversity are at risk for self-control problems. Preschool curricula and specialized training programs to promote the development of self-control offer promise as an intervention for at-risk children.