Does SA care about early childhood development?

The first three years of a child’s life is the time when their potential to develop emotionally, physically and cognitively is crucial.  To this end, early childhood development is crucial in preparing them for school.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) can be defined as programmes, activities and experiences aimed at promoting the overall health and education of young
children – with the active participation of their caregivers and parents..

It refers to a child’s all-round development in the first 1000 days of his or her life and is what sets them up for further growth, success and confidence and equips them with necessary social skills into childhood and adulthood.