Note for the Frontline Workers
- Early childhood development includes physical, socio emotional, cognitive and motor development between 0 -8 years of age.
- The early years are critical because child’s brain develops rapidly and has a high capacity for change. This time lays foundation for the future.
- If a child is provided a favorable and nurturing environment, his/her chances to a better future increase.
- It is estimated that one woman dies every hour in Pakistan, due to pregnancy and birth-related causes. The number of children dying is even higher.
- One child dies every minute in our country. Those who survive usually face a plethora of problems. Diarrhea, pneumonia and malnutrition are common.
- If a child is provided with nurturing environment, his/her chances of survival and growth improve. It is the role of parents to provide their children with a nurturing environment that is sensitive to children’s health and nutritional needs, provide protection from threats, offer opportunities for early learning, and allow interactions that are responsive, emotionally supportive and developmentally stimulating.
- The environment of a household plays a crucial role in a child’s health and development. Safe and secure structures of the house, adequate amount and type of food, and availability of books and play materials - all have a key role in a child’s life.
- Equally if not more important are the social and psychological factors. The love and affection of elders and the early learning through play with siblings are critical.
- Together, this nurturing care helps a child grow, learn and develop a positive personality.