Flourish

Did you know that your brain can't tell the difference between physical pain and social rejection?

Feeling excluded, ignored, or unsupported doesn't just hurt emotionally, but it can also have a real impact on our mental wellbeing.

This is why it's so important that parents and caregivers feel supported too. Children are more likely to thrive when the adults in their lives are emotionally supported and are better equipped to provide the responsive, nurturing care that helps young children grow, learn and develop.

This week's takeaway: Supporting the wellbeing of parents and caregivers is one of the many ways we can help children thrive.

Food does more than fill hungry tummies. It helps children grow.

This World Food Safety Day, we are reminded that safe food is an essential part of good nutrition, especially during the first 1 000 days of life.

From preparing meals with clean hands and safe water to storing food correctly and keeping feeding utensils clean, small everyday actions can help protect children from illness and support healthy growth.

When food is safe, children have a better chance to absorb the nutrients they need to grow strong bodies, healthy brains and bright futures.

Every child deserves food that is not only nutritious, but safe too.

Today, on the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, we are reminded that women’s health is a matter of rights, dignity and equity.

It goes beyond access to healthcare. It is also about having the nutrition, support, information and enabling environments that allow women not only to survive, but to thrive.

Across the world, far too many women continue to face barriers to nutritious food, quality healthcare and consistent support during pregnancy and early motherhood. Yet these are essential foundations, not only for women’s wellbeing, but for the health and future of the next generation.

At Grow Great, we see every day how critical a mother’s health is during pregnancy and the first 1 000 days of a child’s life. When women are supported, informed and nourished, children are more likely to grow, learn and develop to their full potential.

This day is a call to action to prioritise women’s health in all its dimensions, and to recognise the vital role women play in shaping healthier families and communities.

To learn more about the work Grow Great is doing to end childhood stunting and create safer, supportive health spaces for mothers and mothers-to-be, visit our website: www.growgreat.co.za