Between 2003 and 2006, the Maria Cecília Souto Vidigal Foundation (FMCSV) defined that Early Childhood Development would be its core activity. The decision was made after the 2nd and 3rd generation members of the family of the founder were informed of the progress made in the field of neuropediatrics, which prove how the experiences of Early Childhood determine the entire development of a human being. In addition, it was confirmed that this age was the most lacking in terms of public policies.
With the purpose of disseminating this knowledge to society, the team of FMCSV was invited to create a program to take the much-needed information to pregnant women, parents, professionals and public managers so they could incorporate the principles of Early Childhood Development in their daily practices.
As a result, the Zero a Três (Zero to Three) Program was born. The first projects to be put into practice were Municipal Social Projects, which aim at developing early childhood in the form of pratical and local intervention.
In addition to the Social Projects, the Zero a Três Program disseminates knowledge pertaining to the development of this first stage of life through projects and the translation of content into Portuguese; book publications, pamphlets and editions aimed at those who take care of small children.
The program also considers important networking and the creation of partnerships in order to enhance the impact of their actions, as well as to exchange experiences.