Empowering Sudan's Future: Nurturing Early Childhood Development through Positive Parenting

Every child has the potential to shape their own future, becoming a powerful force in society and building brighter, more prosperous futures. Yet, early childhood - that crucial period when cognitive, language, and psychosocial development begins - often stands as a barrier for many children under five in Sudan due to factors like poverty, conflict, poor nutrition, and limited access to basic services.

35.5 of these young lives are at risk of not reaching their full potential because of these challenges, which can lead to lower academic achievements in primary school and ultimately dropout rates. It's clear that the role of parents is pivotal in this journey towards a safe and healthy life for their children; they act as bridges connecting them with opportunities for growth.

In Sudan, it's crucial to empower children from early on - before cognitive development begins - through positive parenting practices. This is essential for giving every child the best start possible. The nurturing care parents provide includes love, adequate health measures, nutrition, learning opportunities, care and protection during the first years of life.

The mother's diet plays a critical role in shaping her baby's future. She needs access to health care services and nutritious food before and during pregnancy, along with regular antenatal checkups to ensure she is well-rested both physically and mentally for the benefits of herself and her unborn child.

Mothers are the primary source of nutrition for their growing babies through breastfeeding - initiating it immediately after childbirth and mntning exclusive breastfeeding until six months old, if possible. Their diet must support this process by meeting the nutritional needs for optimal growth and development in children.

Parents can lay the foundation for healthy development when they create neural connections in a child's brn through loving acts like hugging, comforting, playing, reading, singing, and talking. They should protect their children from maltreatment, abuse, and neglect at all times.

UNICEF is committed to ensuring every child has the best start in life by supporting parents with nurturing care practices and positive parenting for young children. We also work tirelessly to strengthen health systems and improve healthcare provider services like Antenatal Care ANC, Postnatal Care for both mothers and newborns, vaccinations, and general health education.

This comprehensive approach is essential for improving maternal and child health, which includes initiatives like cash transfers and access to essential medical services in communities most affected by conflicts or other hardships. UNICEF continues to make a difference through innovative programs that promote the growth and well-being of children across Sudan.

Related topics:

Parenting

Early childhood development

Healthcare and Maternal Health

Explore further articles, press releases and more on our website pages for an in-depth look into these crucial areas impacting children's lives.
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