Dual Impacts of COVID-19 and Racism and Inequity on Child Development: Interdisciplinary Conversations and Development of a Research-Policy Agenda

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.