Editorial: Supporting families in the first 1,000 days of life – a balancing act

Abstract

From the moment of fertilization, human development takes a phenomenal pace. In no other period of life are more biological and developmental milestones met than in the first 1,000 days after conception. All organs and systems are formed, and children start to discover the world, learn whom to trust and where to find comfort in times of distress. Evidence from biological, psychological, social and economic research shows that the environment in the first 1,000 days significantly impacts a person's ability to reach their full potential. Children who grow up in unpredictable and unsafe environments often struggle with the consequences for the rest of their lives. Investments in this critical period of human development have proven to be the most cost-effective way to improve lifelong health and well-being. Therefore, this period has gained interest both in political debate and society at large. In this contribution, we demonstrate that while the focus on the first 1,000 days is scientifically sound and historically grounded, it is time to reflect on its societal impact. We focus on its unintended negative consequences for parental well-being. Evidence for the importance of the first 1,000 days should drive collective action rather than reinforce individual blame. Parenting is not just a private matter; governments have a duty to provide parents with the resources to give their children the best start in life.