Book excerpt: Relationships play an important role in human development, especially in the first years of life. Bridging the Relationship Gap provides caregivers tools and encouragement to be the strong, positive, and nurturing adult these children need in order to thrive. Learn more about the factors that contribute to the achievement and relationship gap, including ecological, biological, and cultural differences. Most importantly, find many tools and resources to help you more effectively deal with the tough situations and become each child's strongest ally. Sara Langworthy, PhD, currently serves as policy coordinator for Extension Children, Youth, and Family Consortium at the University of Minnesota.