In Paraguay conditions for rural children living in poverty are often difficult. At least 14% of children age 5 years and younger show moderate to severe physical stunting (UNICEF 2009). More than half of the children in primary school have repeated at least one grade by the time they complete the sixth grade. Rural families living in poverty, who…

Pastoral del Nino is transforming children's lives in rural Paraguay. Part of Pastoral Social (Catholic Social Services), Pastoral del Nino's primary focus is to bring "vida en abundancia" (the abundant life) to families by ensuring that mothers survive childbirth and children reach their first birthdays. In addition, the organization…

Expresses the view that radical reforms, including reordering of national priorities, are needed to provide a human environment for children. Gives a concrete suggestion to make major institutions become family- and child- oriented. (Author/AJ)

Calling for a systematic reappraisal of the way children are prepared for school, a Committee for Economic Development report recommends the combination of a wide range of public and private resources that will address all aspects of children's early development and simultaneously improve the nation's public schools. (BB)

A diverse group of professionals associated with Texas Woman's University's Institute for Women's Health, working collaboratively with school administrators, teachers, family support teams, and family members, developed Growing with EASE: Eating, Activity, and Self-Esteem, a nutrition program for young children and their families. In tracking the…