Abstract
This article discusses significant changes in childcare policy and practice in Chile. We distinguish four specific periods of childcare history: child abandonment and the creation of foundling homes in the 19th century; efforts to reduce infant mortality and the creation of the health care system in the first half of the 20th century; an increasing focus on inequality and poverty and the consequences for child development in the second half of the 20th century; and, finally, the current focus on children’s social and emotional development. It is concluded that, although Chile has achieved infant mortality and malnutrition rates comparable to those of developed countries, the country bears the mark of a history of inequality and is still unable to fully guarantee the health of children from the poorest sectors of society. Recent initiatives seek to improve this situation and put a strong emphasis on the psychosocial condition of children and their families.
Highlights
Chile has achieved an infant mortality rate similar to that of developed countries
This review presents a concise, yet comprehensive account of childcare history in Chile that serves as a point of reference for specialists in social medicine, psychologists, and policy makers in Chile and other countries
Efforts during this period focused on decreasing infant mortality rates and increasing life expectancy
Summary
Chile has achieved an infant mortality rate similar to that of developed countries. This favorable situation reflects the culmination of several changes made to childcare policy and practice based on the findings of scientific studies. We discuss four critical periods of childcare history against the background of more general changes in health care focusing on the following main aspects: key policies; changes in childcare practice; and scientific research. The last period corresponds to the last decade, when childcare began to focus on improving children’s social and emotional well-being. This period is characterized by a sharp increase in the number of research studies related to childcare
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