Early Years

The early years is defined by Welsh Government as the period of life from pre-birth to the end of Foundation Phase or 0 to 7 years of age.  These years are a crucial time for children. Children grow rapidly and both their physical and mental development are affected by the environment in which they find themselves in. The first three years of life are particularly important for healthy development due to the fast rate of neurological growth that occurs during this period.  There is an abundance of research showing that investing in the first years of a child’s life improves outcomes for them throughout the rest of their lives.

Children in Wales has been involved in early years work for over 20 years.  We work closely with policy makers locally and nationally on this issue as well as with managers and practitioners to increase the awareness of the importance of supporting children’s development pre and post birth all the way through their early years and to support the improvements to services who are supporting families with young children.

Our current work includes:

• Influencing policy and strategy on a national level
• Promotion of research on various aspects of child development and the early years e.g. attachment
• Promoting of data collection and monitoring interventions
• Coordinating  a Wales wide Flying Start network
• Coordinating a Wales wide Integrated Children Centre network
• Convening events to share practice and research on relevant themes
• A series of training events relevant to the early years

For more information about any of these issues please contact Anna Westall, tel: 029 20342434, e-mail: anna.westall@childreninwales.org.uk