Dual Impact of Covid-19 and Systemic Racism and Inequity on Children’s Developmental Trajectories in the Early Years: Interdisciplinary Conversations and Development of a Research-Policy Agenda

The Carolina Seminars is a learning environment where innovative interdisciplinary conversations take place. Faculty, students and community leaders can participate in these conversations. We have been funded for a 3-year new Seminar that will bring together scientists and child advocates across disciplines to build a bidirectional translational bridge between research and public policy. These conversations have the potential to improve the lives of children and families within North Carolina, as well as affect research and policy beyond our borders. The seminar series will increase awareness about the impact of disparities that contribute to children’s ability to keep pace, which have broad dire effects on the neurodevelopmental trajectories of children growing in disadvantaged households and communities. The seminar will further inform science-based policy measures that compel action within our local and state governments to drive initiatives that combat disparities impacting early childhood learning and well-being. Research findings establish the critical need for access to high-quality and equitable early care and education and health services that support developmental trajectories of neurological, social, mental and behavioral health.

You would be part of a first meeting to discuss the impact of the COVID crisis on child education, and in particular focusing on the systemic inequities that disproportionately impact black and other minoritized children and communities. The goal is to inform us of issues and action-driving needs that can be addressed with innovative science and interventions, and can bridge to policy.

I would be honored if you could join our first “virtual meeting”, December 9th at 3:00-4:30 pm. Our audience will be a list of UNC and Duke faculty across disciplines, from education, to psychology, to social work, as well as our HBCU collaborative partners. It is a very casual meeting, more of a discussion; we are eager to identify areas where we can be impactful and contribute significantly as scientist collaborators.