Early childhood is a crucial period for human development. It is during these initial years—even before birth—that the foundations for lifelong learning, health, and well-being are established. To delve deeper into this topic, we spoke with three experts: Maureen Black, emeritus professor in pediatric psychology at the University of Maryland; Orazio Attanasio, an economics … [Read more...] about Early Years, Lifelong Impact: Key Insights on Supporting Child Development
Innovating to Transform Early Childhood
Parenting, like life, is dynamic and demands constant adaptation. Let's just think about our parents’ childhoods: they were very different from ours, and the childhood of a child born in 2025 will be even more so. Many of the challenges the region must address around early childhood have evolved over the years. But there are also long-standing issues that still require new … [Read more...] about Innovating to Transform Early Childhood
Early Childhood Development and the Next 1,000 Days
The first 1,000 days of a child’s life—from pregnancy through age two—are critical for development. A vast body of scientific evidence shows that experiences during this period have a lasting and profound impact on health, learning, growth, and overall well-being. Yet over the past decade, most attention has focused on these early 1,000 days, leaving another equally important … [Read more...] about Early Childhood Development and the Next 1,000 Days
Is It Possible to Diagnose Hearing Loss Early in Newborns?
The 2021 World Report on Hearing from the World Health Organization estimates that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will have some degree of hearing loss, and 700 million will require rehabilitation. Hearing-related disabilities can be prevented if the condition is detected early and appropriate interventions are implemented. Hearing Tests for … [Read more...] about Is It Possible to Diagnose Hearing Loss Early in Newborns?
Care Work Is Also Work: Recognizing and Valuing Women’s Role in Care
Care is a universal need. All of us have received and will receive care at some point in life: in early childhood and later in life due to aging, illness, or potential disability. However, the responsibility for providing care falls primarily on women, who in Latin America and the Caribbean account for 71% of the hours dedicated to caring for others (including both children and … [Read more...] about Care Work Is Also Work: Recognizing and Valuing Women’s Role in Care