Early childhood or all childhoods? A contribution to social policies aimed at childhood and youth

Abstract

This article explores the reasons that lead organisations such as UNICEF and national governments to prioritise early childhood. The article presents the care responses developed by indigenous communities and societies throughout history, demonstrating that in all cases they have sought to respond to all ages, including young people. 

The article refers to the difficulties that arose in Argentina after the establishment of the agro-export model and the passing of the Patronato law. Relevant experiences of accompaniment are highlighted, taking as a reference the work of Don Bosco and youth organisations in the Soviet Union. Subsequently, the article focuses on the community and public responses developed in Argentina, particularly in the province of Buenos Aires, demonstrating that these responses have been attentive to the accompaniment of all children.