Boosting the Benefits of Cash Transfer Programs during the Early Years : A Case Study Review of Accompanying Measures
Using a case study approach, this comparative review examines the operational arrangements of child-focused accompanying measures in nutrition and parenting from 19 cash transfer programs. It covers both family-focused cash transfer programs for households with children, and public works programs that have incorporated accompanying measures largely in response to the need for childcare among beneficiaries. The accompanying measures reviewed include: incentives for pregnant women, parents and caregivers to use available supply-side services; the direct provision of child focused goods and services as part of the cash transfer program; and behavioral interventions for parents and caregivers to build knowledge and inform choices and parenting practices. As context for the operational case study approach, the note includes a theory of change and brief review of the available evidence on cash transfer programs’ impact on young children’s development. The note also provides a set of operational lessons learned and a ‘forward look’ to inform program design and future research.
