There is overwhelming evidence that the early years of a child's life, from conception through school entry, are a crucial determinant of adult health and well-being. The first six years of life are characterized by rapid brain development that is modified by interactions with people and the physical environment. These early experiences shape brain structures that influence the ability to resist and recover from illness, the ability to learn social skills and self-discipline and the acquisition of a variety of cognitive and non-cognitive skills that are known to determine success in life.

The Vancouver Coastal Region Early Years Framework is an opportunity to formalize a process and structure where ECD partners within the Vancouver Coastal Region work together to promote healthy child development. The Framework was initiated by the Ministry of Children and Family Development and engaged regional and community partners through a Steering Committee.

On March 27th, the Framework was formally approved by the three regional partners (Ministry of Children and Family Development, Vancouver Coastal Health and United Way of the Lower Mainland/Success by 6) through a Memorandum of Understanding. Additional partners will be welcome to sign on to the Framework. The implementation of the Framework will provide opportunities to:

• Improve abilities to make shared and logical decisions in the region, within the complexity of different funders, partners and initiatives
• Ensure that the voices of different communities are heard
• Complement and link to other existing and emerging frameworks by facilitating pathways for region wide understanding and response
• Advocate for healthy public policies related to early child development
• Strengthen the connections that can lead to true collaboration and integration of services within the region.