Neuroscientific, biological, genetic and social science research evidence has unequivocally demonstrated that the foundations of adult health, well-being and productivity are formed during the first years of life (Shonkoff et al., 2012). There is growing recognition that protecting, promoting and supporting early childhood development (ECD) not only is possible through intervention and prevention (Engle et al., 2011) but also a priority for the global community. Indeed, never before has the political commitment to invest in ECD been as strongly articulated as it is now.
