Investing in young children is one of the smartest investments a country can make to break the cycle of poverty, address inequality at the root, and boost productivity later in life. The benefits of early childhood development programs that integrate health, nutrition, education and social protection components are particularly strong for poor and disadvantaged children. Recent scientific and economic studies show irrefutably that early childhood experiences have a profound impact on brain development and on subsequent learning, health, and adult earnings. Smart investments in young children improve prospects for communities and can yield dramatic economic gains for countries.

As we work to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals related to early childhood development, join World Bank Group President Jim Kim, UNICEF Executive Director Tony Lake, and a panel of experts LIVE at 4:30 PM ET on Thursday, April 14 to launch a global movement to ensure that children everywhere can thrive.

Related Links:

Early childhood development: A smart investment for life

Measurement matters in preschool quality

World Bank on Early Childhood Development

Infographic: Early Childhood Development

UNICEF