Why it is Important
The impact of the first 2000 days of a child’s life from conception to the time they start school has a lifelong affect. During this time children’s brains are shaped by their experiences, particularly the interactions they have with parents and other care givers. What happens during this time lays the foundations for future development.
There are approximately 100,000 babies born each year in NSW so it makes economic sense to support families earlier rather than later. Late intervention is estimated to cost $15.2 billion/year.
Investing in early childhood produces a return on investment of $13 for every $1 invested. Children who develop within nurturing environments are more likely to become happy and productive members of society (Brighter Beginnings: The First 2000 Days of Life April 2021). So investing in the first 2000 days of a child's life is one of the best investments a community can make for the future!
Background
The First 2000 Days Framework was developed by the NSW Department of Health and released 2019. The importance of the First 2000 Days of life is now being more fully understood after many years of research.
The Framework was developed based on the results of many years of research and we now know that the impact of what happens during this period has a lifelong effect. Yet if we tackle adversity, and support early relationships it leads to healthy brains and better futures. Healthy social and emotional development during this period:
- lays the foundations for lifelong health and wellbeing
- provides a safe and secure environment which enables children to play, explore and learn
- creates the bricks that build the foundation for all future development through positive interactions by talking, singing, playing and reading together
- helps children to better understand and manage their emotions and behaviours
- builds resilience
- gives children the skills to form trusting relationships
- supports children to become a nurturing parent, sowing the seeds for the next generation
There is a wealth of research to support these findings (Brighter Beginnings: The First 2000 Days of Life)
The Raine Study
The Raine Study, established in 1989, is one of the largest prospective cohorts of pregnancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood to be carried out anywhere in the world.
The Raine Study has grown to be a multi-generational study. The researchers have followed a group of young adults from before they were born and throughout their life. Their families are also part of the study, with their children, their parents and their grandparents are now being involved.
The rich data collected on each Raine Study participant is being used by researchers all over the world to better understand, and improve, human health and quality of life (The Raine Study accessed 18 February 2022)
