In order to integrated ECD related activities within the Health Posts, one Health Post (Maradhoo Feydhoo) was selected to try out as a model setup. This island was identified in view that this community was selected under HEALTHY ISLAND PROJECT by Ministry of Health. This activity began in August 2004 and is on going.

Aim of developing ECD friendly health post was to:

1. provide child-centred services that are adequate and acceptable to children and parents including;
        Health
        Nutrition
        Water, Hygiene and Sanitation
        Cognitive development
        Socio-emotional development
        Child safety and protection
        Behavioral problems and children with special needs
        Developmental monitoring
        Communication

2. Provide a venue for dissemination of information related to the development of 0-5 year old children.

3. Create a child-friendly environment that attracts children.

4. Create/strengthen the link between the different authorities involved in caring for children.

From 2006 this activity would be carried out by Department of Public Health steered by a steering committee. ECD unit is represented in this committee.

Link 19: Strategy paper

Link 20: Maradhoofeydhoo report (prepared by Hawla Ahmed Didi, local consultant)