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The Lao Women’s Union, the Government of Australia, and UNICEF, in collaboration with key ministries, development partners, and civil society organizations, convened a National Parenting Forum today to enhance support for parents and caregivers during pregnancy and the first two years of a child’s life — a period recognized as the most critical window for child development.

Global evidence shows that high-quality early childhood investments generate some of the highest returns in public policy, leading to children who are healthier, more prepared for school, and more likely to achieve higher lifetime earnings.
“A family is the first classroom, and parents are a child’s first and most important teachers,” said Mrs. Aly Vongnobountham, President of the Lao Women’s Union. “With simple, practical support — breastfeeding, playful talk and reading, good nutrition, regular check-ups — we can change a child’s life course. We call on all partners to invest with us so every parent receives the help they deserve in the first 1,000 days.”
Findings from the Third Lao Social Indicator Survey highlight both progress and challenges: about 33% of children under five are stunted, 11% are wasted, only 37% of toddlers receive all vaccines on schedule, 45% of infants are exclusively breastfed, and 27% of children aged 3 to 4 attend early education programs.
Successful initiatives, however, demonstrate proven ways to overcome these challenges. Through the “Love and Care for Every Child – Happy Families Grow Together” program — supported by the Government of Australia under the Australian NGO Cooperation Program — thousands of Lao parents are receiving hands-on guidance on nurturing care practices such as talking, singing, playing, and comforting their children, while linking families to antenatal care, nutrition, immunization, growth monitoring, and early learning services.

“Australia is proud to support Lao PDR’s commitment to nurturing care for every child,” said Ms. Benita Sommerville, Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy in Laos. “Investing early delivers the best value for money — healthier children, better learning outcomes, and a stronger workforce. We stand ready to work with the Government and partners to ensure every family, no matter where they live, has access to the support they need.”
The forum also highlighted the importance of equitable access for families in remote areas, non-Lao speaking communities, and children with disabilities, while calling for family-friendly workplace policies to help parents provide the care children need to thrive.
“The first 1,000 days are when human capital is built,” said Mr. Bilal Aurang Zeb Durrani, UNICEF Representative to the Lao PDR. “By integrating early childhood and parenting support into the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, we can ensure every baby’s brain gets the nutrition, protection, and stimulation it needs. That is good for children — and smart economics for the Lao PDR.”
The National Parenting Forum reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Lao Government, Australia, UNICEF, and partners to invest in families and ensure that every child in the Lao PDR has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
KPL