Incorporating care practices and resources for care into existing health, nutrition, and integrated programmes can have significant positive effects on children's growth and development. Correlational studies and a few efficacy trials suggest the promise of this approach for improving the survival, growth, and development of children, particularly those under three years of age. This paper defines the concept of care, clarifies characteristics of nutrition programmes that include care, and describes four intervention strategies for health and nutrition that incorporated care. It summarizes lessons learned from these and other experiences and current actions that UNICEF and others are taking regarding care, and suggests further steps.
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