Childhood study provides valuable insight

 
25 November 2010

Childhood study provides valuable insight – Children’s Commissioner

Findings from a major childhood study have potential to improve the lives of all New Zealand children, Children’s Commissioner John Angus said today.

Growing Up in New Zealand, a longitudinal study led by the University of Auckland, follows 7000 children from before birth to adulthood. The first results of the research, with information collected from before the children were born, were released today.

“What is interesting, and yet not surprising, is that almost all parents-to-be in this study have the same high hopes for their children’s future happiness, health and education. Regardless of their background, all parents want the very best for their children.

“This on-going research will give us a valuable insight into where things go wrong for some families as well as why they go right for many, and why the outcomes for children vary so greatly across New Zealand’s population.

“Because while it’s true that New Zealand is a great place to grow up for many children, sadly for others it’s not. Too many children grow up in violent and abusive homes where their needs are neglected and their development put at risk.

“This study also backs up what we know about the optimum time to talk to parents about things like the risks associated with shaking a baby. Prospective and new parents are very open to receiving information about what is best for their child – which is important for health and social professionals to be aware of.

“The other key findings, like the incredible ethnic and language diversity of the parents, will also help make sure we plan well for future generations.

“I applaud the University of Auckland for taking on such a massive and important piece of work and government for continuing to fund it despite fiscal constraints. I also support the approach to the research. The researchers want to discover what ‘works’ for children and families, with a real focus on child development in the early stages of life.

“It will be fantastic to have New Zealand evidence that backs up what we already know about the impact of those first few years.

“It is good to see the government has provided funding for this research. I trust that support will continue, allowing this vital work to keep providing us with information to improve the lives of future New Zealanders.”   
 
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