More than 100 million children never go to school. About 20 million children around the world have been displaced by conflict. About 177 million children are suffering from stunted growth, mainly because of malnutrition in pregnant women. One of every 10 children is disabled. The Unicef campaign for early-childhood development is based on the premise that it is a basic human right for children to have sound nutrition, health care, clean water, adequate sanitation and basic education.
Early care is a solid investment.
Those attending preschool or day care are less likely to suffer illness, drop out of school or need later remedial services. In comparison with most of the world, Canada's children are well off. The rate of low birth weight has decreased and child death rates have steadily declined. The health indicators of aboriginal children in Canada are closer to those of Third World countries, she said. Ms. Walker was critical of the Canadian child-care system.