Importance & Problems of Early Childhood Care and Education

Did you know that by the age of 5, 90% of our brain is developed? Yes! According to experts, when a child is born, the size of the brain is only a quarter of that of an adult individual. By the age of 3, it is about 80% of the adults, and by the age of 5, 90% is developed. This is indicative of the fact that early childhood care and education (ECCE) is extremely important. 

What is ECCE? ECCE are various programmes designed for the care of children aged 0-8. From birth till they begin their primary education, kids require special attention. ECCE encompasses various programmes to establish their emotional, social and academic growth. Today’s write-up will focus on the significance and challenges surrounding ECCE. Keep reading ahead!

Significance of Early Childhood Care and Education

Early Childhood Care and Education provides a protected and intellectually conducive environment. It is considered critical during the formative years when kids can absorb any information or experience quickly. If we talk about India, many programmes fall under the ambit of ECCE. These include the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS), the Mid-day Meals Scheme/PM-POSHAN, etc. Let’s learn why there is a need for ECCE.

• One of the key reasons why ECCE is essential is that it boosts cognitive development. Offered before starting primary education, it prepares kids to enter kindergarten classes.
• ECCE establishes a foundation of literacy as students learn to read, write, develop early mathematics knowledge, etc.
• During the ECCE phase, children master the majority of their motor skills, including walking, running, jumping, balancing etc.
• We all are aware of the importance of social skills. They learn vital life skills like how to interact with teachers and peers, showing empathy and cooperation, etc. 
• Lastly, it has been noticed that 

Challenges Surrounding ECCE

It is unfortunate that despite the countless benefits of adopting Early Childhood Care and Education, several challenges surround these programmes. It is not uncommon to witness children not getting proper care and support. Let’s find out about some of these challenges. 

• One of the biggest challenges while providing care and education is limited funding. The expenditure is quite low, hindering the whole process. The limited funding leads to poor infrastructure, disparity in distribution and inadequate staff.
• The lack of trained educators is another difficulty faced in India. Not many teachers are trained enough to tackle the diverse needs of children.
• There is a great rural and urban divide in India. Unfortunately, ECCE has better accessibility in urban areas than in rural areas. Due to illiteracy and lack of awareness, many marginalised communities suffer greatly.
• Lack of quality is another issue which creates a disbalance in India. Sometimes, the resources provided by ECCE are not optimal and are unevenly distributed across the nation.
• There is also the problem of insufficient and unreliable data. There is no way to track and monitor the progress as no reliable data is available for those kids who attend ECCE programmes. 

Conclusion

Oftentimes, people do not realise the impact of early educators and education programmes on future growth and success. Enabling intellectual, emotional, academic and social development, ECCE or Early Childhood Care and Education is a worthy investment for any nation. This is why K.R. Mangalam World School, School in Lucknow, has a pre-primary wing adhering to the ECCE curriculum. 

This curriculum is designed to empower kids so they can display their potential. KRMWS is considered the best school in Lucknow as they ensure a safe, intellectually stimulating and academically conducive environment. The admissions are open for the 2025-2026 sessions. Register today!  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is early childhood care and education?

Early Childhood Care and Education, or ECCE, includes all the programmes which are created to support child development from birth till primary education. This period is critical for brain development, and ECCE strives to establish good health, nutrition, reading, writing, arithmetic skills, social-emotional development and more.

What is the need for early care and education?

ECCE is critical for child development and their future. Establishing lifelong learning, ECCE teaches kids about basic skills like reading, writing and arithmancy, which will aid them during their formal school years.

What are the biggest challenges of early childhood education?

Despite its importance, ECCE is not devoid of challenges. Some of the biggest challenges while providing early care and education to the kids are lack of funding, limited resources, inadequately trained staff, lack of support, parents’ involvement and more.

Which is the best primary school in Lucknow?

There are various schools in Lucknow, but K.R. Mangalam World School emerges at the top. KRMWS believes in the power of education and how it can empower students to become well-rounded individuals. 

Is K.R. Mangalam World School CBSE or ICSE?

The K.R. Mangalam World School is considered the best CBSE school in Lucknow. It is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).