Countries are at different stages of advancing nurturing care with and through health systems. Small and big changes are happening at national and sub-national levels. The information provided on this page gives you a glimpse into what is happening where under each of the five strategic actions.
‘Criança Feliz’ (‘Happy Child’) programme
Considered the world’s biggest ECD experiment, ‘Criança Feliz’ was instituted in 2016, through a presidential decree, to promote comprehensive development of children in their early years. Watch two videos about the program here. More.
Parenting programme
The Ministry of Education together with other ministries and partners has developed a parenting programme encompassing different aspects that contribute to a good start in life, including immunization and healthcare, early education and play, positive parenting without use of violence, and good hygiene and sanitation. More.
Community-based peer support
In the Nurturing Care Group Model, implemented by World Vision in over 28 countries, volunteers are trained on messages related to nurturing care, caregiver stress reduction techniques and identifying and reporting violence against children. An evaluation showed significant improvements in water, sanitation and health environments, with parents reporting they use less physical punishment.
Family-centred services for caregivers of children with developmental difficulties
Ummeed Child Development Center provides training to community health workers, promoting development in children at risk, looking for signs of developmental delays and refering families to appropriate resources and services. Ummeed advocates for equity and inclusion of children with disabilities. More.
Supporting caregivers with young children living in humanitarian settings
Ahlan Simsim (Welcome Sesame), created by Sesame Workshop and the International Rescue Committee, supports caregivers of young children affected by displacement. During home visits and group parenting sessions, facilitators guide caregivers to manage stress and learn how to support their children’s development. Families are reached by television, mobile devices, classrooms or health clinics. More.
Supporting caregivers with young children living in humanitarian settings
Ahlan Simsim (Welcome Sesame), created by Sesame Workshop and the International Rescue Committee, supports caregivers of young children affected by displacement. During home visits and group parenting sessions, facilitators guide caregivers to manage stress and learn how to support their children’s development. Families are reached by television, mobile devices, classrooms or health clinics. More.
Supporting caregivers with young children living in humanitarian settings
Ahlan Simsim (Welcome Sesame), created by Sesame Workshop and the International Rescue Committee, supports caregivers of young children affected by displacement. During home visits and group parenting sessions, facilitators guide caregivers to manage stress and learn how to support their children’s development. Families are reached by television, mobile devices, classrooms or health clinics. More.
Side-by-side campaign promotes nurturing care
The Department of Health is leading a national campaign known as Side-by-Side to ensure that all children under 5 receive the nurturing care they need to develop to the best of their abilities. View the campaign website here.
Peer education and psychosocial support for women affected by HIV
mothers2mothers trains and employs HIV-positive mothers as mentors to support HIV+ pregnant women and new mothers. They also provide advice and support on early learning, responsive and playful parenting, health, nutrition, water, sanitation, hygiene and safety.
Supporting caregivers with young children living in humanitarian settings
Ahlan Simsim (Welcome Sesame), created by Sesame Workshop and the International Rescue Committee, supports caregivers of young children affected by displacement. During home visits and group parenting sessions, facilitators guide caregivers to manage stress and learn how to support their children’s development. Families are reached by television, mobile devices, classrooms or health clinics. More.
Holistic parenting model
The holistic parenting model comprises of multisectoral integrated parenting clubs operating at commune and village levels. More.
“I play, I learn, I thrive” playful parenting campaign
The Government of the Republic of Zambia, with support from UNICEF and the LEGO Foundation, has launched a national campaign highlighting the benefits of play for Zambian children. The campaign is called “I play, I learn, I thrive.” More.
