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INTERNATIONALLY • Global Development • Early Childhood Development

Strengthening the Child Development Nexus

Providing access to quality age- and gender-responsive health and nutrition services for children and their mothers.

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The early years of life are crucial for a child’s development, laying the foundation for healthy growth, strong cognitive development and future success. For many children, however, limited access to quality early childhood care and development services during this critical window of opportunity can hinder their ability to thrive and reach their full potential.  

Quantedge Advancement Initiative supported Plan International Hong Kong’s ‘Strengthening the Child Development Nexus in the Philippines’ project in Zumarraga, Western Samar. The project aims to provide children, especially girls, and their mothers, with access to quality age- and gender-responsive services in maternal, newborn, child health, and nutrition (MNCHN) and early childhood development (ECD).

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Our partnership with Plan International focused on two key areas:

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1. Strengthening the local healthcare system

  • Equipping health workers with the knowledge and skills to provide quality care to mothers and children during pregnancy, childbirth and early childhood.

  • Establishing a robust community-based referral system to ensure timely intervention and access to specialised care for children with or at risk of developmental delays, disorders and disabilities.

  • ​Enhancing the commitment of the local government to prioritise and invest in MNCHN and ECD services.


2. Empowering parents and caregivers

  • Educating parents and caregivers on the importance of early childhood care and development, as well as proper parenting practices on health, nutrition, hygiene, responsive caregiving, play and early learning.

  • ​Engaging fathers and male caregivers to foster men’s positive involvement in nurturing their young children.

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In addition, the project seeks to develop a replicable model that can be scaled up across other Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) in the Philippines, thereby extending its reach and impact. We hope that our support for this project will drive lasting systemic change and transform the lives of countless children and their families in underserved communities.

Outcomes

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Over a two-year timeframe, Plan International has achieved the following outcomes in Zumarraga: 

  • Reached 468 children (aged 0-4), 1,710 parents and caregivers and 160 local government personnel and service providers across 10 barangays

  • Increased the proportion of parents and caregivers with knowledge of early detection and referral for children at risk of developmental concerns from 14% to 86%

  • Established a localised referral pathway for children with developmental concerns, enabling timely identification and access to appropriate support services

  • Secured commitment from 11 Local Government Units to integrate ECD practices into local plans and budgets


Moving forward, Plan International will continue to support communities in Zumarraga to sustain and build on these outcomes.

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