How to promote children’s health and well-being
New from McKinsey & Company
How to improve children’s developmental trajectories
Childhood is an inherently magical period of imagination, discovery, and creative play—but it’s also a critical window of development for health, social, and economic potential. Trauma, when unaddressed, can have dire consequences on physical, emotional, and brain development in young children. “We need to establish a foundation of emotional well-being, to promote their social–emotional development to the fullest, help them express themselves, find that sense of comfort and consistency,” Jeanette Betancourt, senior vice president for US social impact at Sesame Workshop, tells Katherine Linzer, McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) partner, in a recent interview. “We know that when young children display early signs of anxiety, stress, or discomfort, it’s up to us to acknowledge that and look at that without stigma.” On National Children’s Day, check out these insights to hear from experts on the role of social factors in children’s health, the effects of tech and social media on Gen Z’s mental health, the impact of mental health and well-being on children and their life trajectories, and more.