The Ministry of Women and Child Development has introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing early childhood care and education in India. With the launch of a national curriculum for children aged three to six years and a framework for early childhood stimulation for those from birth to three years, the ministry seeks to revolutionize the country's Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) landscape.
Recognizing that 85% of brain development occurs before the age of six, the Ministry emphasizes the critical importance of early years in a child's development.
Through initiatives such as Mission Saksham Anganwadi, Poshan 2.0, Palna, and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) Schemes under Mission Shakti, the government aims to provide comprehensive childcare support, including nutritional support and activities for holistic child development.
The newly launched National Curriculum for ECCE 2024 covers various domains of development, including physical/motor skills, cognitive development, language and literacy, socio-emotional skills, cultural/aesthetic development, and fostering positive habits.
Structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience, the curriculum includes a weekly calendar comprising active learning, reinforcement, and initiation periods, along with play-based learning activities.
Furthermore, for children from birth to three years, the National Framework for Early Childhood Stimulation 2024 aims to empower caregivers and Anganwadi Workers to provide holistic early stimulation.
Based on the Nurturing Care Framework, this framework focuses on responsive caregiving and early learning opportunities to promote optimal development of children's body and brain.
The framework emphasizes key principles such as "serve and return," caregiver's three acts (love, talk, play), and positive guidance. It also provides age-based activities for each month, which can be conducted both at home and at Anganwadi Centers or Creches.
Additionally, special attention is given to screening, inclusion, and referrals for children with disabilities. Overall, these initiatives signify a significant step towards ensuring the holistic development of children in their early years.
By providing a structured curriculum and framework for early childhood care and education, the government aims to lay a strong foundation for the future of India's children.
Follow us
