From neuroscience, it has been demonstrated that the first 1,000 days of a child’s life are decisive for their development and well-being, with long-term effects on their social and learning abilities. During this period, the brain grows faster than ever—up to 80% of its functions develop, and more than one million new neural connections are formed every second.
For the first time, Fundación Luksic is launching Conversemos Mamá nationwide—a free, online program that supports pregnant women and new mothers through guidance via WhatsApp, practical content, and spaces for connection with other moms, offering tools and strategies to promote their children’s development.
“Nobody teaches you how to be a mother. When women lack support networks or access to reliable information, it becomes more challenging to provide enriching experiences for their children. This has a direct impact—in the medium and long term—on their social and learning skills, and deepens the gap between those who grow up in vulnerable contexts and those with more opportunities,” explained María Fernanda Orellana, Director of the Early Childhood area at Fundación Luksic.
Evidence underscores the urgency of initiatives like this. A study conducted in public primary healthcare centers (CESFAM) found that the prevalence of high depressive symptoms among perinatal women (during pregnancy and postpartum) ranged between 13.9% and 20.9%. These emotional challenges directly affect mothers’ well-being and their ability to bond with their children. At the same time, recent research shows that 42% of parents report that their children experience learning difficulties or special educational needs—highlighting the importance of supporting early development.
In parallel, Conversemos Mamá is part of the Crecer en Renca program and is developed and implemented by Fundación Luksic. Participants are invited to join during medical visits at various CESFAM centers in the municipality. In 2022, an impact evaluation showed statistically significant results in child development and neuroprotective factors such as breastfeeding, birth weight and height, perceived maternal support, access to information, and understanding of the first 1,000 days of life.
How to apply
You can apply through the online form available at fundacionluksic.cl until Sunday, October 19, 2025.
The call is open to women registered at a CESFAM who are between 3 and 5 months pregnant or who have babies aged 0 to 2 months.
You can review the complete guidelines and access the application form at the following link.
