A Good Start

Early childhood sets the foundation for inclusive societies.

We work globally to improve the wellbeing of babies, toddlers and their caregivers. We provide investment and knowledge to help leaders develop and scale effective policies and services with a focus on the period from pregnancy to age 5.

Why we focus on the early years

The early years of life – from before birth to five years old – is a unique window of opportunity to transform lives. Babies’ and toddlers’ brains develop rapidly, and small changes at this young age can have lifelong effects that contribute towards building more inclusive societies.

Learn more about the early years

Parents and caregivers are crucial

Young children need love and care as well as opportunities for proper healthcare, nutrition, protection from harm, and play. Caregivers shape their children’s earliest experiences and development. We support parents and caregivers so that they can provide children nurturing care that ensures lifelong, health, learning and resilience.

But families need villages of support

Parents do not raise children alone – government, business, civil society and philanthropy – all have a role to play in supporting  families. We work with leaders from different parts of society to scale policies and services that create inclusive support systems in our core countries and globally. 

Bringing in new perspectives

We believe every part of society has something to contribute to improve the lives of babies, toddlers and caregivers. Our Urban95 programme brings municipal leaders, urban planners, engineers and civil society together to create better cities for young children and their families.

If you could experience your city from 95cm — the height of a 3-year-old — what would you change?
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We document and share our learnings around the world
Our knowledge library shares resources from our work and our partners to inform and inspire change for young children, caregivers and communities.
Explore all knowledge