The initial stages of life are scientifically recognized as a fundamental period for the development of a person because the experiences lived in early childhood – the period comprising from birth to six years of age – profoundly affect the physical, mental, social, and emotional development of individuals. And it is precisely because of the enormous transforming potential of this phase of life – so delicate, yet so valuable, capable of setting strong foundations for the future – that the Núcleo Ciência Pela Infância (NCPI) chose it as its focus of work.
Our perspective is that applied sciences are vital to the strengthening of public policies, programs, and professional practices, which focus on improving the quality of life of young children, especially those in vulnerable situations. We understand that by directing the content to leaders and decision-makers in the public sector and civil society in general, we can foster the use of the knowledge in practice. Additionally, we support innovative solutions that have a positive impact on children up to six years old and the potential for scale.
WORKSTREAMS
To fulfill the objective of bridging the gap between the content produced by the scientific community and society, the NCPI works through six workstreams: International Symposium, Scientific Committee, iLab, Executive Leadership Program, CPAPI – Brazilian Center for Early Child Development, and Online course: Science and Implementation of Public Policies on Early Childhood Development, all of which are guided by the following fundamental principles: science and innovation, leadership development, communication, and evaluation.
The dissemination of scientific content and theoretical and practical materials, coupled with efforts to raise awareness and mobilization, allow their application to initiatives aimed at early childhood development and help improve the public debate on the topic.
MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS
Founded in 2011, the NCPI is a coalition that brings together seven organizations of diverse nature and competencies, which contribute to activities through the provision of financial resources, availability of infrastructure, technical support, and/or strategic support.
Learn more about each of the organizations:
- Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal Foundation
- Bernard van Leer Foundation
- David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies (DRCLAS)
- Insper
- Porticus
- Universidade de São Paulo Medical School
TRANSPARENCY
Click here for a summary of the main activities and achievements of the NCPI between August 2018 and December 2021.
See also the executive summary of the NCPI’s external impact assessment for the same period.