Dear Editor,
The data is clear – There are long-term economic benefits to investing in early childhood services. Children who participate in early childhood development benefit from improved academic progress, being more likely to graduate secondary/high school, decreasing involvement in the criminal justice system and contributing to public welfare by joining the workforce as adults.
UNICEF data indicates that access to quality care and education programmes outside the home can foster social competency and emotional development. Having a strong social and emotional foundation in early childhood leads to children building relationships which are essential for emotional security and well-being.
There is a role for faith groups, community health workers, corporate entities, friendly societies and non-governmental agencies to be part of the ecosystem which fosters the development of strong families and communities. An ecosystem which provides every family with the information and access to early learning, health, nutrition, mental health, child care, parenting and social services to put young children on a trajectory for positive development outcomes. All parents regardless of their socio-economic status must be equipped to guide and support their children from childhood through adolescence, laying the foundation for success as adults.
Comprehensive systems and policies which support investments in early childhood can decrease childhood adversity, promote the development of problem-solving skills, prevent violence against children, help change powerful social norms and promote open communication to empower teenagers to make informed decisions about their future. We must advance better economic, health and social outcomes for every Guyanese child.