Government and UNICEF Launch National Parenting Policy Initiative

The Ministry of Human Development, Family Support, and Gender Affairs in partnership with UNICEF and the National Commission for Families and Children (NCFC), has launched a national initiative to provide all parents and caregivers with coordinated, evidence-based support. The program aims to strengthen the family unit and ensure children have the foundation to thrive.  The effort will begin with a comprehensive review of the 2017 “Art of Parenting” guide, incorporating the latest research and culturally relevant approaches for modern Belizean families. The initiative is a direct response to research that highlighted a critical gap: a lack of coordination and consistent standards among the various parenting programs currently offered across the country.  The ultimate goal of this initiative is to create Belize’s first-ever National Parenting Policy. This policy will establish clear mechanisms for coordination, quality standards, and sustainable frameworks for delivering parenting support nationwide, ensuring consistency and greater impact.  The initial consultation, held today, brought together key leaders and experts to begin shaping the policy. Participants included Thea Garcia Ramirez, Minister of Human Development; Dr. Olusola Oladeji, Health and Nutrition Specialist from UNICEF Belize; Sherlene Tablada, a consultant; and Maria Elena Contreras, Chair of the NCFC.  This collaborative process will continue with consultations until September to ensure the final policy reflects the diverse voices and needs of Belizean families from all six districts.