It’s about time

What family-friendly policies would make a difference to your family life?

Kids celebrating World Children's Day in Cameroon
UNICEF/UN0732015/Dejongh

Being a parent is the most important job in the world. The first 1,000 days of life is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a baby’s brain and shape a child’s ability to learn and grow.

Parents want to give their children the best they can. Yet, many have no choice but to work long hours, often away from home, to support their families.

It’s about time. Parents need time to give their child the best start in life. And it’s about time governments and businesses supported them by investing in family-friendly policies that help parents do just that.

 

Investing in family-friendly policies around the world

Being a parent is the most important job in the world. During the first 1,000 days, parents have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a baby’s brain and shape a child’s ability to learn and grow.

Parents need time to give their child the best start in life. We’re calling on governments and business to invest more in policies that give parents the time and support they need to raise happy and healthy children.

UNICEF
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham calls for parents to get the time and support they need.
UNICEF New Zealand
Clarke Gayford, husband of New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern and father to their baby Neve, on the importance of time as a parent.

Mini parenting challenges 

With every hug and every kiss, every meal and every game, you can help your baby develop in so many ways. Try out our Mini Parenting Challenges for inspiration. They’re fun, free and fast to do!

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Explore UNICEF’s work on early childhood development