The First 1000 Days is universally recognised at the critical window for human development. “Getting it right” in the first 1000 days influences long term physical health, brain growth and cognitive abilities and shapes a child’s future wellbeing, immune system and educational potential. With 1 million neural connections forming every second, a child’s brain is developing faster during this time than at any other time of life.
Good nutrition and care prevent chronic illness in later life such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, reduces the risk of irreversible growth deficits, helps break the cycles of poverty and disadvantage and every £1 invested at this time returns up to £200 in long term benefits.
Despite all the evidence, and the continuing efforts of people and organisations across the sectors, children in the UK have some of the worst health outcomes in Europe. The First 1000 Days is our “north star” for Starting Well so to kickstart a shift from concept to a clear and shared sense of direction, we held a regional workshop towards the end of September to collaborate with over 50 passionate professionals and work towards a shared focus that aligns actions, decisions and makes a real difference to babies and families.
Keeping moving is important in so many ways, and we all took part in QuickChange – Keeping Me Well as part of the day!