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
Early Education
Growing Up Is Not the Same as Developing: Definitions to Enhance Comprehensive Development in Childhood
We grow as part of a biological process, but growing is not the same as developing. Growth refers to physical changes, such as height or weight, which can be measured by certain standards. Development, on the other hand, is a complex process, involving biological, psychological and social changes, which influence later stages of life. With 43% of children under five at risk of … [Read more...] about Growing Up Is Not the Same as Developing: Definitions to Enhance Comprehensive Development in Childhood
Primeros Pasos: Favorite Articles of 2024
Another year is ending, and it’s time to reflect. For us at the Primeros Pasos Editorial Committee, this means reviewing which articles were the most read throughout the year, which sparked the most comments, and what topics drew the most interest. After all, looking back at what we’ve accomplished helps us plan ahead with better insights, ensuring we continue offering relevant … [Read more...] about Primeros Pasos: Favorite Articles of 2024
Closing Gaps in Early Childhood Development: A Renewed Commitment
The Convention on the Rights of the Child, a global commitment to protect and promote children's healthy development and fulfillment of their potential, was adopted 35 years ago. On this World Children’s Day, during the event Challenging Inequalities: How to Close Gaps in Early Childhood Development, we asked ourselves: Have we lived up to this commitment? What challenges do … [Read more...] about Closing Gaps in Early Childhood Development: A Renewed Commitment
Shaping the Future of Childhood: Two Key Pillars to Improve Child Development in Ecuador
"My son came here unable to speak. He wouldn't talk, he wouldn't share. He went through a total change. He is an open, cheerful, fun child today," Alexandra tells us excitedly. She is one of the mothers who takes her son to the Child Development Center (CDI) in Ibarra, Ecuador, every morning. It is a free service that is a great help for her son's upbringing and … [Read more...] about Shaping the Future of Childhood: Two Key Pillars to Improve Child Development in Ecuador