WNAM REPORT: A two-day training was held on July 3-4 for specialists in the healthcare system of Turkmenistan working in the field of early childhood development to strengthen their skills in effective communication and interaction with families.
The training was organized by UNICEF jointly with the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry of Turkmenistan.
The interactive sessions were aimed at developing participants’ skills for constructive dialogue with parents, focusing on supportive and respectful communication.
Health workers practised counselling techniques, discussed common challenges faced by parents, and looked at how sensitive and responsive interactions between a child and an adult can support their full development. The training programme covered key topics including age-appropriate care, WHO-recommended infant nutrition, and involving parents in monitoring their child’s development through everyday activities.
As part of the event, participants also learned about a new parenting guide designed to help families track their child’s development from birth to age five.
Health professionals discussed how to conduct meetings with parents to collect feedback and adapt the manual to the practical realities and needs of families, according to a UNICEF press release.
