October 1-2, 2008

Sponsor/Co-Sponsor(s): Child Development and Behavior (CDB) Branch, Center for Research for Mothers and Children (CRMC), NICHD; and the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, a Division of Mars, Inc.

Location: Rockville, Maryland
Purpose: HAI is common during childhood and other stages of human development, but a shortage of robust scientific research currently exists to reinforce and deepen understanding of the true nature of its impacts—positive and/or negative. The need for additional scientific research on HAI is clear, especially in light of its potential connection to moderating public health issues, and the already increasing use of promising, but largely unproven HAI interventions by practitioners in the field. This invitational conference, focused on the interface between HAI and child development, is the first major activity under a new Public Private Partnership between the NICHD and the Waltham Centre, a division of Mars, Inc. The goals of this workshop are three fold: taking stock of the current science in HAI and child development; encouraging cross-discipline discussion and collaboration; and developing a research agenda. Products may include a summary of the meeting, a journal article, and an edited volume. These products will give greater reach and visibility to the important discussions anticipated at this workshop.

Contact:
Peggy McCardle, CDB Branch, CRMC, NICHD
Tel: (301) 435-6863
Fax: (301) 480-7773
E-mail: pm43q@nih.gov