The ‘Grow Together’ law reached its one-year milestone since its enactment in January 2023, making significant strides in ensuring the care and protection of El Salvador’s infants, children, and adolescents.
Championed by the First Lady, Gabriela de Bukele, the legislation aims to secure the rights of the nation’s youth and create environments that foster their maximum developmental potential.
“This week, we continue celebrating one year since the implementation of the ‘Grow Together’ law, an initiative by First Lady Gabriela de Bukele, dedicated to ensuring the rights of girls and boys, as well as providing comprehensive care for early childhood through a national model,” detailed the Grow Together Institute (GTI).
The National Institute for Early Childhood, Children, and Adolescence (Conapina) was established as the governing body for the law.
The law has driven actions beneficial to early childhood, such as the establishment of Early Childhood Care Centers (CAPI). Additionally, access to cultural spaces for children has been guaranteed throughout its inaugural year.
Article 58 of the law emphasizes, “Families, society, and the State must respect the cultural, artistic, and historical values specific to the social context of children and adolescents, ensuring their freedom of creation and access to cultural sources.”
In adherence to this regulation, the First Lady’s office collaborates with institutions like the Ministry of Culture to create spaces where young children can explore the country’s cultural heritage, reinforcing national identity.
Furthermore, within the framework of the Strengthening Child Welfare Centers (CBI) Plan, the Grow Together Institute (GTI) delivered new materials for the care of early childhood to 20 CBI centers located in the western, eastern, and paracentral regions at the end of 2023. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to providing quality care and support to the youngest members of Salvadoran society, ensuring they grow and thrive in a nurturing environment.