Letter to Editor

Year 2025, Volume: 1 Issue: 1, 1 - 1, 27.01.2025

Fahriye Figen Turan

Abstract

Getting Started
The healthy development of children is one of the most fundamental dynamics shaping society. Protecting children holistically—across physical, linguistic, personal, social, and emotional dimensions—not only enhances individual development but also serves as a cornerstone for creating a more just, healthy, and sustainable societal structure. The realization of scientific research in the field of child development and education, grounded in superior principles, not only contributes to academic advancements but also serves as a vital guide for shaping social policies. These principles, deeply rooted in human rights and prominently emphasized in the domain of children's rights, aim to ensure the health and comprehensive development of children. For the implementation of these principle of superiority, interdisciplinary collaboration is indispensable. Cooperation among fields such as health sciences, educational sciences, and social sciences—using transdisciplinary approaches—can lead to a deeper understanding of ecological and developmental challenges and the formulation of solutions tailored to the current system's needs. Such collaboration will not only advance academic innovation but also provide critical guidance for the development of child-centered policies. Globally, progress in child policies has been achieved through various legal regulations and national strategies. However, there remain many areas requiring further development and reinforcement. A comprehensive review of both theoretical and applied approaches in child development and education is essential for establishing a robust foundation for child-focused policies. It is particularly important to ensure that these policies prioritize the "best interests of the child," whether for typically developing children, those at risk, or those with special needs. Advancements in this direction can offer concrete guidelines for scientific studies, policy development, and program requirements in areas such as child policies, health services, family support, developmental support, early intervention, and social services. interdisciplinary strategies and research centered on the best interests of children can significantly contribute to both policy development and its implementation. Scientific studies in programs like child policies, health services, family support, developmental support, early intervention, and social services can provide actionable insights for shaping policy and meeting societal needs. Furthermore, increased reporting and dissemination of information regarding children's rights play a critical role in improving children's well-being. Promoting the protection of children's rights and supporting their healthy development contribute to a more sustainable future for society as a whole. I hope that the comprehensive and original research published in the Journal of Child Development and Education will empower children to realize their full potential and contribute to their healthier and more enduring development. I also hope that this journal will focus on scientific studies in the field, establish a foundation for interdisciplinary research on the best interests of children, and support the advancement of child-centered policies. I believe that the journal will continue to serve as a vital platform for advancing child policies and promoting the principles of children's best interests to a broader academic audience. Wishing you great success. Best regards,
Prof. Dr. Figen Turan
Hacettepe University Faculty of Health Science Head of Child Development Department

Hayal Uğurlu
Hacettepe University Department of Child Development and Education Alumni Association

Keywords

Çocuk Gelişimi Eğitimi