The key family practices which improve child health and
development
 
Breastfeed babies exclusively for six months (HIV positive mothers need
special counselling on infant feeding to understand and practise the
safest options).
From six months, give children good quality complementary foods while
continuing to breastfeed for two years or longer.
Ensure that children receive enough micronutrients – such as vitamin
A and iron – in their diet or through supplements.
Dispose of all faeces safely, wash hands after defacation, before preparing
meals and before feeding children.
Take children to complete a full course of immunization before their
first birthday.
Protect children in malaria-endemic areas by ensuring they sleep under
insecticide treated bednets.
Promote mental and social development by responding to a child’s
needs for care and by playing, talking and providing a stimulating environment.
Continue to feed and to offer more fuids, including breastmilk to children
when they are sick.
Give sick children appropriate home treatments for infections.
Recognise when sick children need treatment outside the home and take
them for care from appropriate providers.
Follow the health worker’s advice on treatment, follow up and
referral.
Ensure that every pregnant woman has adequate antenatal care, and seeks
care at the time of delivery and afterwards.
Further important practices that
protect vulnerable children:
Provide appropriate care for HIV/AIDS affected people, especially orphans,
and take action to prevent further HIV infections.
Protect children from injury and accident and provide treatment when
necessary.
Prevent child abuse and neglect and take action when it does occur.
Involve fathers in the care of their children and in reproductive health.
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