Child Development in Developing Countries: Child Rights and Policy Implications

Abstract

The Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey was used to provide information on feeding practices, caregiving, discipline and violence, and the home environment for young children across 28 countries. The findings from the series of studies in this Special Section are the first of their kind because they provide information on the most proximal context for development of the youngest children in the majority world using one of the only data sets to study these contexts across countries. Using the framework of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in particular the Rights to Survival, Development and Protection, findings are explained with implications for international and national-level social policies. Implications are also discussed, with respect to policy makers and the larger international community, who have the obligation to uphold these rights.

Child care and health rights: perspectives of adolescent mothers

“…The survival of children is linked, among other relevant aspects, to the presence and involvement of another; they are dependent on the proximity of the care by the people performing protection functions and supply food, comfort and safety (3) . Another important aspect to highlight is that public policies need to influence the environment around the child and the community, health professionals and other areas and managers (3) .…”

“…Another important aspect to highlight is that public policies need to influence the environment around the child and the community, health professionals and other areas and managers (3) . A positive environment includes key personnel with good interaction with the child and offers constructive opportunities for children to grow, learn and develop (3) .…”

“…The listed aspects aim to maintain favorable conditions for development in early childhood and in later stages, ensuring that the early years are preserved and their rights certified (3) . Thus, an expanded role of health professionals involves potential subjects in the process of defending rights in childhood and adolescence, in pursuit of health promotion and protection.…”

“…In providing healthcare for children, it is essential to focus on their essential needs (1) and to identify vulnerable situations in the face of adverse conditions for its development (2)(3) . An expanded look into child care is also of utmost importance, taking into account the weaknesses for their own protection and defense (4) , which require the presence and involvement of those who are engaged in advocating for ensuring their rights (5) .…”

Assessing Child Development: A Critical Review and the Sustainable Child Development Index (SCDI)

“…The CRC assigns children a relevant role in SD and provides a normative concept for understanding child well-being and CD [25,32,33]. Due to the broad spectrum of aspects covered, the rights defined by the CRC are often used as fundamental principles for the assessment of CD and well-being [25].…”