Putting babies at the heart of policy

This chapter explores the critical importance of prioritising infants in policy. It will argue that early childhood provides the foundation for human development. It will examine the long-term social and economic benefits of investing in policies concerned with health, education and social care. Through integrating the growing insights and research that neuroscience, psychology and economics provide, this chapter will highlight how investing at the start of life is crucial in addressing inequalities and supporting families in their vital parenting role. It will critique policy initiatives in the UK and internationally, as well as exploring what more can be done to ensure all babies have the best start to life. There will also be a focus on the workforce, and training that is required, with a particular focus on multi-professional working – that brings together early educators as well as health and social care professionals.