We now have a convergence of evidence from neuroscience, epigenetics, psychology, and economics pointing to the vital importance of the early years. The first few years of life represent a period of opportunity to establish solid neural foundations for later development, powerfully affecting brain development, behavior and health throughout life. To ensure all children are given the resources they need to thrive, China’s child health system is an important actor. As an entry point for families, it plays a key role in communicating the importance of young children’s healthy brain development for the wellbeing of the entire population.

There is a general pattern of growth and development in children, of which the first 1,000 days of life are extremely important, as it is the period of the fastest growth of the brain and body in a person’s lifetime. During this time, the brain grows most of its capacity and experiences extremely rapid and critical language development. Early nutrition, living environment and pregnant condition influence children’s growth and development. Aiming at children’s developmental behavior and language development, we should follow children’s development rules and create a good growing environment.

The nutrient intake during the first 1000 days of life – from pregnancy to two years of age – was a window of opportunity when good nutrition would have the highest impact in reducing nutrition-related deaths and disease and avoiding irreversible harm to the child. Protect, promote and support exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and to provide safe and appropriate complementary foods with continued breastfeeding for up to two years of age or beyond is recommended. Deliver adequate knowledge about how to breastfeed, the appropriate complementary foods to give, and good feeding practices are often a greater determinant of malnutrition than the availability of food.