the first thousand days
From conception to age two – is a once-in-a-lifetime window of rapid brain and body development. During this time, a baby’s brain is shaped by every experience and interaction, whether positive or negative.
The good news? We know what helps children thrive. Even in tough circumstances, when families are supported with the right knowledge, tools and care, they can give their children the strong start they deserve.
Local churches are already at the heart of their communities: trusted, present, and ready. With the right tools, they can be the supportive village every family needs.
Launched in 2019, Sikunye has a tested approach to mobilise churches to support families to flourish.
a growing network of First Thousand Day-friendly churches
Churches contain remarkable social capital and can be mobilised to be the supportive community that families need. They have inherent strengths and assets, a wide reach, are contextually relevant and can play an important part in a Whole of Society Approach to seeing children thrive.
FTD Month 2025
Every child is fearfully and wonderfully made by God. FTD Month is a campaign, with hundreds of churches sharing this message of how valuable children are. Between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day 2025, churches across the country are doing something to raise awareness and call their congregation to be part of the village of support around caregivers and their children.
Stay connected.
Whether you’re a church leader, a volunteer, or just passionate about seeing families flourish – we’d love to keep you in the loop.
You can receive updates via WhatsApp, our monthly mailer, or follow us on social media.
