Introduce
The first 1001 days, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are a critical period for development, as they lay the foundation for lifelong health, wellbeing, and learning. During this time, a baby’s brain grows rapidly, shaped by their experiences and interactions with caregivers. Secure relationships, nurturing environments, and responsive care during this phase are essential for building healthy brains, emotional resilience, and strong foundations for the future. What happens in these early days profoundly influences a child’s potential and ability to thrive.
The 1001 Days Matter Movement is a campaign and initiative that emphasises the significance of these first 1001 days. The infographic below highlights the value of investing in the emotional wellbeing of babies during this timeframe:
Image source: First 1001 Days Movement
Develop
Read the following adaptation from Harvard University’s Centre on the Developing Child, The Science of Early Childhood Development, to help you reflect on why the first 1001 days are so important:
An Early Years Health Development Review was completed in 2020 which focused on how to improve the health and development outcomes for babies in England. You can access the full document here, if you’d like to read more.
Reflect
Stop and Reflect: Take some time to reflect on the significance of the first 1001 days and begin to explore how families can be best supported during this time:
– What do you already know about child development during the first 1001 days, and how has this knowledge shaped your interactions with young children and their families?
– How might practitioners effectively support families to ensure children reach their full potential during this period?
Optional
Watch the paediatrician, Johan Morreau, share his insights into how the earliest interactions and experiences shape not only individual lives but entire communities. Morreau challenges us to rethink our approach to supporting children and families during this formative time: