Universal, affordable access to early childhood programs is essential to help young children develop their potential. Equally important are measurement systems to help determine what supports are needed for children. The components of a high quality measurement system exist in Canada but need to be coordinated and applied consistently across the country, write Dr. Clyde Hertzman from the University of British Columbia and Dr. Robin Williams from the Regional Niagara Public Health Department in Ontario, Canada http://www.cmaj.ca/press/pg68.pdf .
The creation of a federal Commissioner of Children empowered to sit at the Cabinet table would help to promote and defend children's needs, they conclude.
Canadian Medical Association Journal