The Critical First 1000 Days of a Child
The first 1000 days of a child’s life begin in the mother’s womb and continue until the child reaches 2 years of age.
This is one of the most critical periods in human development. During this time, the brain, body, and immune system develop rapidly. What happens during these early days does not only influence childhood growth and development, but can also have lasting effects on health later in life. Good early nutrition is associated with a lower risk of certain diseases and supports lifelong health. Early nutrition plays a powerful role in building this foundation.
Babies should be breastfed within the first hour of birth and continue to BREASTFEED EXCLUSIVELY for the first 6 months — only breast milk, no other foods or drinks, not even water unless the doctor advises so.
After 6 months old, it’s time for babies to start eating safe and adequate complementary foods (to feed the baby with other foods and drinks) while continuing to breastfeed until 2 years old or longer, depending on what you and your baby desire.