Order of Portuguese Psychologists asks the Government for greater investment in the first years of life.
Nowadays, it is almost common sense: first 1000 days of life are essential in development of the person concerned.
The foundations, socio-emotional development, the ability to learn, to form healthy relationships, to integrate the community, more than a million new neuronal connections per second. You pillars All in the first 1000 days – which include pregnancy and the baby’s first two years “outside”.
In this context, and in the context of Universal Children’s Rights Day which was marked on November 20th, the Order of Portuguese Psychologists (OPP) appeals to the Government for there to be a greater investment at this stage.
In , the OPP emphasizes that there is no doubt regarding the cost-benefit: investing in programs to promote parenting skills can generate a return of 6 to 16 euros for every 1 euro invested; In child abuse prevention programs, there is an average return of 7 euros. This is not a detail: almost half of children do not have a secure relationship with their parents or caregivers.
In the field of health, the Order considers that pre- and post-natal consultations should necessarily include psychological and social assessment. To achieve this, the National Health Service should have one psychologist for every 5,000 users, reinforcing Primary Health Care and Pediatrics and Obstetrics Services.
No work by Social Security, there should be a reform of labor legislation to give priority to child development. Proposals: 100% paid parental leave for at least six months; reduction of working hours until at least the child is 3 years old; tax incentives for companies that adopt measures to promote the reconciliation of personal, family and professional lives; reinforced protection for pregnant women in shift work.
Already education and in early childhood intervention, the OPP calls for scientifically validated literacy programs on child development and parenting skills. In addition to universal access to childcare, and to high-quality childcare settings – which is one of the most cost-effective measures.
Already economy and in supporting families, the Order of Portuguese Psychologists suggests 100% reimbursement of essential supplements for fetal and child development; reduce VAT on essential products for the first years of life; and create integrated support services for families, combining Health, Education and Social Support in proximity structures.
