Child development is the outcome of interaction between the child and his/her environment. The ecological model explains that the development of a child is a product of the continuous dynamic interactions between the child and the experiences provided by his/her family and social context. The family (or primary caregivers) is the most influential, especially in the early stages of development. As the child grows older, the community and wider society gradually gain influence.

The ecological model is closely linked to the concept of psychosocial well-being, which also emphasizes the importance of interaction between the inner psychological and the outer social world. When trying to strengthen children’s well-being, one should not only focus on the child level. The other levels need to be taken into account as well and this has implications for our interventions. War Child also works with the adults who need to support them, as well as the community and wider societal structures.


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