Recommendations for Prioritizing Early Childhood in Political Agendas
The Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal has developed guidelines to ensure that public policies for children from birth to six years old are incorporated and strengthened in government plans during these municipal elections
Published on 23/07/2024 03:04, by Fundação Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal
The first six years of life are pivotal in a child’s development, establishing the groundwork for their physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional well-being. Ensuring a comprehensive childhood is a responsibility shared by families, society, and the federal government, as affirmed by Brazil’s Federal Constitution. Local governments play a critical role since early childhood policies are implemented at the municipal level and directly affect children and their caregivers.
To enhance focus on this crucial issue, the Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal has proposed six recommendations for candidates in the upcoming 2024 municipal elections nationwide, urging them to prioritize early childhood.
“Municipal leaders must institutionalize early childhood initiatives as permanent policies to effectively support child development, and their role in this agenda is pivotal,” states Mariana Luz, CEO of the Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal.
These recommendations, grounded in data and evidence, cover six thematic areas and highlight the necessity of an intersectoral approach that addresses all facets of children’s lives and their caregivers’ needs.
Detailed information about the recommendations is available on the Early Childhood FirstA downloadable version, consolidating these recommendations into a concise digital booklet, is also available for immediate access. Read it now.
The Fundação Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal champions the following recommendations for early childhood policies::
- Early childhood should be recognized as part of a permanent policy framework.
- Early Childhood Educationearly childhood education, not just the availability within schools.
- Supporting families is key to enhancing child development.
- Effective early childhood health care starts during pregnancy.
- Implementing anti-racism policies helps combat inequalities from a young age.
- The Public safety measures must consider the well-being of children.
These guidelines align with Agenda 227 and have been endorsed by the Foundation and over 100 other organizations. For more details, visit the ‘Prioridade Absoluta nas Eleições 2024’ (‘Absolute Priority in Elections 2024’) campaign website..