Introduction
The health and well-being of families is an important consideration for all governments – federal, state and local. Based on past morbidity and mortality rates and recent knowledge of early childhood development (Marmot, 2010), family health policies have evolved to emphasise the importance of providing every child with the best possible start to life. This acknowledges that childhood sets the foundation for future health and well- being and recognises the 1979 United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child (United Nations Children Fund, 2009). In order to have an impact on health inequalities, government policies and services must address the social determinants of early child health, development and well-being (Brinkman et al., 2012; Marmot, 2010).
Nursing has a long history of working with families and promoting health. Nurses and midwives’ accumulated knowledge of families and health promotion are pivotal to the health and well-being of mothers and children, given that pregnancy, birth and the early years are significant life events. The early years of life are critical in influencing future health and social outcomes across the lifespan (Marmot, 2010). Epigenetic studies show that early adversity, stress and poor development affects physical and mental health, behaviour and learning in later years (Mustard, 2010; Shonkoff, Boyce & McEwen, 2009). Investing early is crucial, with returns far greater than the original investment (Marmot, 2010).
Studies into developmental neurobiology and brain architecture indicate that every baby is born with billions of neurons that represent lifelong potential (Mustard, 2010). The more stimulating the environment, the greater the connection between neurons, which leads to increased potential for enhanced physical, emotional and social development in children. This is particularly important during the first three years of life.
Women and children who are supported through a system that provides adequate antenatal care, universal access to child and family health services (Marmot, 2010), and quality early childhood education and child care, including pre-school attendance (Goldfeld et al., 2016), will thrive. These children will grow into adults who, in turn, will have greater potential to contribute towards a rapidly changing, global society. Governments providing comprehensive maternal, child and family health (MCFH) services are the insurers of our future generations.