First 1,000 Days of Life

We must effectively affirm, protect, and defend each and every human life, including the unborn. In addition to adequate financial and medical support, women facing a crisis pregnancy need access to emotional and wrap-around services that can enable them to parent or to place their child for adoption. The state must also ensure access to high-quality childcare and decent housing to women in need, and make it possible for them to continue their education. (Gaudium et Spes, 26; Living the Gospel of Life: 23, USCCB)

By focusing on the first 1,000 days of a child’s life — from conception through the child’s second birthday — we can help ensure children have the care and resources needed to reach their full developmental potential. The first 1,000 days of life is a unique period of opportunity when the foundations of optimal health, growth, and neurodevelopment across the lifespan are established. By making sure children’s needs are met in the first 1,000 days of life, we can avoid a host of expensive societal problems and build a stronger Minnesota.

For further information on this issue download this one-page informational guide.