We’ve talked before about how poverty negatively impacts both early child development and brain development. Young children are shaped by the stimulation they receive, as well as the words they hear and the significant relationships they have. However, these factors vary considerably from one socioeconomic level to another. To bolster child development, we have to bring down … [Read more...] about Can cash transfers boost child development?
Preventing violence in early childhood in the context of COVID-19
In late 2021, more than 80 officials and representatives from Latin America and the Caribbean met for a dialogue on the challenges faced and the innovations developed around the issues of health, social protection, and early childhood development since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In that Regional Policy Dialogue, we discussed extensively the subject of violence against … [Read more...] about Preventing violence in early childhood in the context of COVID-19
How to promote early childhood development in prison?
The ongoing debate on motherhood in prison revolves around whether children should remain with their mothers or not. In some countries, women who give birth while serving time have the right to live with their children until they are three years old. The children born and raised in prison are not recognized as part of the population and therefore lack institutional protection. … [Read more...] about How to promote early childhood development in prison?
Why we can’t afford to let early childhood education fall through the COVID-19 cracks
This post originally appeared on UNICEF Connect’s Evidence for Action blog on 22 July 2021 A few weeks ago, after his last day at kindergarten, my son wanted to show me his portfolio. Marveling at the delightful collection of drawings, crafts, photos and teacher notes, I couldn’t believe how lucky we are that he got to experience a full year of kindergarten, in spite of … [Read more...] about Why we can’t afford to let early childhood education fall through the COVID-19 cracks
Three Lessons from a Regional Dialogue on Early Childhood
When representatives from Latin America and the Caribbean get together for a dialogue around the present and future of areas as important as health, social protection, and early childhood development, the result is an unending stream of ideas, exchanges, and synergies. Paths open; paths which, beyond showing the shared needs and shortcomings, lead to lessons and innovations … [Read more...] about Three Lessons from a Regional Dialogue on Early Childhood