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
Family and Children
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
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
How Adverse Childhood Experiences Impact Long-Term Development and What We Can Do to Prevent Their Effects
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—such as neglect, physical or emotional maltreatment, abuse, abandonment, or witnessing domestic violence—are more common than one might think. Since they were first studied in 1998, research has shown that, for example, 6 out of 10 people in the United States experienced at least one adverse experience before turning 18. Without adequate … [Read more...] about How Adverse Childhood Experiences Impact Long-Term Development and What We Can Do to Prevent Their Effects