Take a course on early childhood development. Colleges offer these classes regularly. Although they generally are geared toward students heading into counseling or education, early childhood development classes are beneficial to anyone hoping to learn about the stages and signs of development. Adoption agencies and foster care social workers also occasionally offer these courses.
Volunteer as a child-care worker. Day-care centers, church nurseries, women's abuse shelters and preschools frequently need volunteers to take care of young children. Volunteer for a few hours or on a regular basis to gain hands-on experience working with young children. As a volunteer, you will play games with the children and assist them with social interactions. You will also teach children to wash their hands and to share toys with one another.
Study a child development book. There are a variety of books discussing the role of early childhood development in childhood and its effect on adulthood. Books that discuss the importance of early childhood include "Emergent Literacy and Language Development: Promoting Learning in Early Childhood" by Paula M. Rhyner, PhD and "The Early Childhood Curriculum" by Suzanne L. Krogh.