A better future for children begins with stronger families
On World Children’s Day, we are reminded of our responsibility to create a society where every child is protected, supported and given the foundation to thrive throughout the different early life stages..
Momentum believes that any society seeking to support children must begin by supporting the families who raise them. While various initiatives aim to help families, many current policies unintentionally overlook one of the most important pillars of a child’s development: the family environment and the parent-child bond.
Matthew Agius, executive member of Momentum said “First, children need stable and affordable homes where they can live, grow and play. Housing insecurity affects every aspect of a child’s life, including their health, education and emotional well-being. A society that values children must ensure that families have access to safe and affordable housing, so that every child can enjoy a secure environment that supports healthy development.”
“Certain economic driven policies are weakening the child-parent bond. For example, free childcare can be very helpful for working parents. However, we must also recognise that placing babies in childcare from only a few weeks after birth, often for long hours, can weaken the early parental bond that is essential for healthy emotional and social development. Our society is willing to invest significant resources in paying a stranger to care for a baby, yet provides little meaningful support to parents who wish to stay home during these crucial formative months” Agius said.
Momentum proposes a more balanced approach with policies that value both parental choice and the needs of infants. If the state is willing to cover the full cost of childcare, it should also support stay-at-home parents with an equivalent level of assistance.
Agius added that “as children grow they are facing new challenges created by the digital era. Social media exposes young people to harmful content, unrealistic expectations, addiction-driven design and online harassment. These pressures often have a serious impact on their mental health and well-being.” Momentum proposes that social media should only be accessible to young adults aged 16 and above.
Momentum believes that with the right family and economic policies, we can create a society that honours the needs of children, supports the families who raise them and ensures no child is left behind.
There is hope, you can help!
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