Behavior change communication model enhancing parental practices for improved early childhood growth and development outcomes in rural Armenia

This publication presents findings from a study in Armenia testing the integration of Early Childhood Development (ECD) into existing Maternal and Child Health (MCH) programs. Conducted over 14 months with 1,300 mothers of children under two, the study used a quasi-experimental design to compare outcomes between intervention and control communities. Results show that children in ECD-integrated sites had significantly higher developmental scores, and caregivers demonstrated improved parenting and nutrition practices. The study provides promising evidence that integrating ECD into MCH platforms can effectively support early learning, growth, and nurturing care.