Holistic Support for Mothers and Children in the Critical First Thousand Days

Holistically Nurturing Mothers and Children During the First Thousand Days and Beyond

The development of children's psychological and physical foundations from conception to age 2 significantly influences their health, growth, and development into adolescence and adulthood. The critical relationship between a mother and child during this early period is fundamental for fostering stability in the parent-child bond and shaping crucial skills like language acquisition and cognitive-social emotional abilities. Recognizing these interdepent, cyclical, and multi-generational impacts has transformed how healthcare and social policies are designed.

The third edition of Temasek Shophouse Conversations on June 7, 2021, gathered experts across various sectors to discuss the symbiotic relationship between a mother and her child in their first thousand days.

Focusing on the Pivotal Window

Neurological and biological development is profoundly influenced by experiences during these early stages, starting from conception as the fetus adapts to its maternal environment both nutritionally and emotionally throughout pregnancy. This exposes mothers and children to vulnerabilities; emotional factors such as stress and mental health conditions can have long-term impacts on a child's well-being.

We must start with the child as our primary focus and strive towards progress that supports their development, emphasized Woon Saet Nyoon, Chief Executive of Temasek Foundation Cares. The Temasek Foundation Integrated Maternal and Child Wellness Hub launched at Punggol Polyclinic in collaboration with KK Women's and Children's Hospital provides a comprehensive framework for screening and early intervention services tlored to optimize health from pregnancy through adolescence. It also facilitates integrated community care for mothers and their children focusing on aspects such as nutrition, development, parenting skills, mental health, and wellness.

Collaborative Efforts for Support

Providing support in maternal and child mental health requires a collective effort encompassing family members, fris, colleagues, and healthcaresocial services organizations moving towards an inclusive system that prioritizes the mother and child at its core.

Taking a collaborative and strength-based approach acknowledges caregivers' desire for their children's best interest and recognizes their capabilities to foster their child's development, explned Ng Wei Chen, Senior Assistant Director of Home Visitation Program under KidSTART Singapore.

Navigating Challenging Times

The global standard recommations have been challenged due to pandemic regulations affecting maternal mental health during the COVID-19 era. MindCare, a division of AMKFSC Community Services dedicated to mental health support, provide wellness assistance through counseling or home visits in response to increased demands from vulnerable families seeking financial and parenting support.

Often, proactive measures are necessary as many might not openly seek help due to societal stigma, shared Jeannie Wan, Head of Mindcare. Receiving help doesn't imply a lack of motherhood capabilities; it's crucial to avoid labeling. In times of hardship, simple gestures like phone calls or messages from fris and family can make significant differences.

Empowering Mothers as Agents of Change

Karen Tan, a patient advocate and theatre actress, highlighted the role of mothers in encouraging others experiencing similar challenges. She observed that Singaporean mothers are often unaccustomed to acknowledging their struggles.

It starts with mothers who have gone through depression sharing openly, she sd. They say it's okay - not wting for others to do so.

Future Directions

Ensuring proper child development encompasses more than just the mother-child relationship dynamics; it also necessitates robust social and systemic support structures med at rsing public awareness and sustned engagement on this issue. Mothers can significantly contribute by sharing their experiences, thus empowering others.

As we continue to enhance our strategies for nurturing children holistically, it's essential to leverage collective efforts from all stakeholders to ensure comprehensive care throughout these formative years for both mothers and children.

The first thousand days set the foundation for a child's lifelong well-being. By recognizing the importance of holistic support systems, nurturing relationships between mother and child, and empowering each other through shared experiences, we pave the way towards healthier communities filled with thriving individuals.
This article is reproduced from: https://www.temasekfoundation.org.sg/work/tsc-maternal-and-child-wellness-ensuring-holistic-well-being-for-mothers-and-their-children

Please indicate when reprinting from: https://www.903r.com/Healthy_Baby/Early_Development_Nurture_Mothers_Children.html