The Better Early Childhood Development Program in Prisons

In Brazil, a significant part of the child population lives in adverse conditions and is exposed to stressful situations that can increase the risk of developing health problems, which can be further worsened in environments such as a prison. The Better Early Childhood Development Program (PIM) is a public effort that has been implanted in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and aims to promote comprehensive early childhood development for all. It’s focused on strengthening significant social interactions between children and family by visiting households with children ranging from 0 to 3 years of age who are in situations of vulnerability and psychosocial risk. This project’s mission is to extend this work to women in prison. It foresees the elaboration of an Intersectorial Line of Care for Mother and Child that guides mothers in their babies’ development and strengthens parental interactions (mother/baby/family) by promoting and/or enhancing family skills.