Alaska's "The Early Years, The Critical Years" conference was designed to educate participants about current brain research, give them an opportunity to discuss public policy with state administrators, provide a forum to develop recommendations and activities to support young children in Alaska, and offer quality training about early development. These proceedings summarize information presented at the conference, provide recommendations and activities that can be used to support healthy growth and development of all children, and provide resources that participants can use for additional training. Part 1 of the proceedings details conference highlights in three areas: (1) key findings about current brain research; (2) Alaska's commitment to children; and (3) recommendations for the future. Part 2 presents the key lessons learned at the conference, recommendations from participants, and suggested activities developed by discussion groups. Topics include: (1) public awareness; (2) parent and family support; (3) quality early care and education; (4) windows of opportunity or critical periods; (5) education and training for adults; (6) health care; (7) child abuse and neglect; (8) primary prevention; (9) early intervention; (10) special needs and disabilities; (11) program and service delivery; (12) community support; (13) work place/business support; and (14) public policy. Appended to the proceedings are lists of the steering committee members, conference sponsors, and conference participants attending a training of trainers session. (KB)