First in a five-part series that presents recent research on the brain. This episode examines how the brain builds itself from conception through the first year of life. Neurobiologists study the intricate relationship between genes and the environment, and a study is done to find out if the difficulties premature babies have paying attention and learning later in life can be overcome by providing an environment that imitates the womb.

Produced by David Grubin Productions in association with Thirteen/WNET, New York. Originally broadcast as a PBS television program. Companion book: The secret life of the brain / Richard Restak. Washington, D.C. : Joseph Henry Press, c2001.