A network for sharing community information. An integrated, independent outcome measure of human development to monitor the effectiveness of parenting and early child development initiatives, and to ensure that early child development remains a priority. The Importance of early support Early child development, social cohesion and economic growth are inextricably linked. From conception to age six, there are critical periods when children's brains are especially subject to experiential influences. It is during this age period that the foundation for learning and behavior, and health over the life cycle is established.
Social cohesion requires a population that is tolerant, literate and committed to civic communities.
Economic growth depends on the capacity of the workforce to adapt to changing technology and the emerging global economy. Optimal brain development depends on children receiving adequate nutrition and being raised in nurturing and stimulating environments. Thus, support for families in their efforts to provide the best possible environments for their children is a critical investment, not only for children, but for the social cohesion and economic growth of a society. Furthermore, there are large differences among communities in academic achievement that are not attributable to socioeconomic background. These findings, coupled with evidence that the number of single parent families and families below the poverty line are increasing, raise concerns about family stress and its effects on the health and well-being of the children.