“Conflict robs children of their safety, family and friends, play and routine. Yet these are all elements of childhood that give children the best possible chance of developing fully and learning effectively, enabling them to contribute to their economies and societies, and building strong and safe communities when they reach adulthood” UNICEF Chief of Early Child Development Pia Britto said.
 
Scientific research has shown that during the first 7 years of a child’s life it has the potential to activate 1.000 brains cells, known as neurons, every second to connect to another 10.000 neurons thousands of times per second. To put it in simpler terms, this neurological function defines a child’s future, regarding its health, emotional well-being and ability to learn.
 
However, not all children are lucky enough to reach their full capacity. New figures reveal that over 87 million children under 7 have only known conflict, according to UNICEF. This means that globally one in eleven children has spent the most critical period of its childhood in undermining conditions.
 
Breastfeeding, nutrition, early stimulation by caregivers, early learning opportunities and a chance to grow and play in a safe and healthy environment are among several preconditions for an appropriate childhood.
 
Children living in conflict are often exposed to extreme trauma, probably facing toxic stress, with significant life-long consequences to their cognitive, social and physical development.
 
“That is why we need to invest more to provide children and caregivers with critical supplies and services including learning materials, psychosocial support, and safe, child-friendly spaces that can help restore a sense of childhood in the midst of conflict” Pia Britto said in a statement earlier today.