Parents value advice from professionals amid confusion over child development

Date: 22nd May 2026
Category: Health and health services, Right to life, survival and development

Illustration shows child being comforted with a hug from their carer and teddy bear.

A study from The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood finds that while parents are highly motivated to support their children, many struggle to navigate the sheer volume of advice available. What they want most is clear, consistent, personalised guidance from trusted practitioners who understand their child, their family context and the pressures they face.

The report highlights how much parents value early years educators, health visitors and family‑support professionals, especially when advice is tailored and grounded in real‑life understanding, including cultural background, financial stress and awareness about neurodivergence.

In response, the Centre has launched Foundations for Life, a new guide designed to strengthen sector‑wide understanding of social and emotional development. Developed with early childhood experts, it sets out accessible, science‑informed insights on how loving, responsive relationships shape children’s lifelong wellbeing.

Find out more about the report

Access the Foundations for Life guide


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