To grow and develop optimally, children need adequate nutrition, they need to be healthy, they must feel safe and secure, and have opportunities for learning starting from birth.  Ensuring these elements is defined as “nurturing care”. Mothers too, need to be healthy prior to conception and they should receive quality antenatal and peripartum care. This will optimize their own health, as well as foetal growth and brain development.

Exclusive breastfeeding, immunization and timely care during illness all contribute to a child’s healthy growth and to a happy childhood experience that will allow them to develop to their full potential. Clean air and water, sanitation, and safe places for play and recreation are likewise important for young children to explore and learn. Parents and other caregivers must be able to respond to young children’s needs, and they may need support in order to do this. This support could include addressing caregiver mental health as an important aspect of services that support children’s healthy growth and development.