Ensure caring environment for children at early age
Speakers at a discussion urged all stakeholders to ensure a caring environment for children in their early days through a concerted effort.
Bangladesh ECD Network (BEN) and Synergos in Bangladesh jointly organised the discussion titled “Scaling up of Early Childhood Days: Learnings from the Harvard Training” at ATM Shamsul Haque Auditorium of CIRDAP in the capital on Sunday.
Stakeholders including representatives from ministries concerned and various non-government organisations took part in the discussion moderated by Dr Manzoor Ahmed, chairperson of BEN.
The speakers said in their early days, children face various challenges that prevent them to grow into their full potential. The early childhood challenges range from health, nutrition, safety and security concerns.
Harsh punishment and inadequate supervision can also affect a child's development, they said, adding that children's parents should make extra efforts for at least first 1,000 days since the birth of a child to overcome those shortcomings.
Communities and local governments also need to play more responsible roles to create a sustainable caring and protective environment so the future generation of the country can grow into their full potential, they also said.
Dr Jena Hamadani, a scientist at icddr,B, shared her experience at the Harvard training program on scaling up of early childhood programs.
Dr Manzoor Ahmed said, “The 1,000-day approach is essential but must be followed up with essential care and services throughout childhood.”
Dr Kaosar Afsana, director of health, nutrition and population at Brac; Suraiya Haque from Phulki; and Dr Aminur Rahman from CIPRB; also spoke among others.
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