The Early Childhood in Focus Prize is currently accepting applications until March 31 for the year 2026. This initiative honors work that highlights various aspects of child development, including health, education, care, and the safeguarding of rights. Participants can submit their projects individually or as a group, with the allowance of up to three submissions per applicant, which must have been published between January 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026. The competition is open to journalists, communicators, and journalism students, encouraging broad participation in this important area of social development.

The prize recognizes entries in four formats: text, audio, video, and social media content. Each category winner will receive a monetary award of R$ 10,000, contributing to a total prize pool of R$ 60,000. Finalists will also have the opportunity to attend an in-person course in São Paulo, with all related expenses covered by the organizing foundation, which emphasizes its commitment to enhancing the skills and capabilities of the participants in the field of early childhood advocacy.

Initiated by the Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal Foundation, the Early Childhood in Focus Prize aims to draw attention to the critical issues surrounding early childhood development, creating a platform for individuals to contribute their work and insights. By providing recognition and rewards, the prize seeks to inspire more practitioners and communicators to engage in meaningful discussions and initiatives that support children’s health and education in Brazil and beyond.