Conversemos Mamá opens applications for 2026

The early years of life are critical for human development: nearly 80% of brain structures and functions are formed during this period, and more than one million neural connections are created every second in the first 1,000 days. Yet in an age of information overload—particularly on social media—many mothers are left unsure about how best to support their children, highlighting the need for reliable guidance and professional support.

Against this backdrop, Fundación Luksic has opened applications for the 2026 edition of Conversemos Mamá, a free, online program that supports pregnant women and new mothers. Through WhatsApp-based group sessions, practical resources, and peer connection, the program provides tools to help foster early childhood development.

“There’s no manual for motherhood, and without strong support networks or access to trustworthy information, it becomes much harder to nurture a child’s development. Over time, this can affect children’s social and learning outcomes, particularly among those growing up in vulnerable contexts,” said María Fernanda Orellana, manager at Fundación Luksic.

Applications are open until May 18 via fundacionluksic.cl. The program is available to women enrolled in Chile’s public primary healthcare system (CESFAM) who, as of June 2026, are between 12 and 25 weeks pregnant or have infants up to three months old. Full details are available online.

The urgency of initiatives like this is backed by evidence. A systematic review published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that one in 15 women experiences postpartum depression within the first year after childbirth—a condition that goes beyond the “baby blues,” involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, difficulty coping with daily life, and extreme fatigue. In Chile, up to 24% of women report symptoms of postpartum depression.

Orellana also emphasized the importance of building lasting support networks for mothers, a core element of the program. Even after the guided sessions end and the facilitator—a specialist in maternal health, parenting, and early childhood development—steps away, the groups remain active. Mothers continue to connect, share experiences, and support one another, creating a community that lasts well beyond the program itself.

An impact evaluation conducted in 2022 found statistically significant improvements in child development and key neuroprotective factors, including breastfeeding, birth weight and length, mothers’ perceived support, access to information, and understanding of the first 1,000 days.