Page 1 - Final Lesson-1.pmd

Early Childhood Care and Education : Meaning and Significance

1 Notes

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND

EDUCATION: MEANING AND

SIGNIFICANCE

Early childhood refers to the early years of life starting from birth to six years.
These years are called the formative years as the foundation for physical, cognitive,
socio-emotional and language development is laid during this period. Researches
in the field of neuroscience have established the importance of these years as
growth and development of the brain takes place at a very fast pace. Early care,
stimulating environment and optimum learning opportunities have a lasting
impact on the lives of young children. This can be done by ensuring quality
Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for all children during their
formative years. Any kind of deprivation may have an adverse impact on the
development of children. Thus, it becomes imperative to understand the meaning
and significance of ECCE.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
After studying this lesson, you will be able to:
• describe the meaning and significance of ECCE;

• discuss the objectives of ECCE;
• explain the components of ECCE;
• highlight the importance of early intervention; and

• describe ECCE in the Indian and global context.

1.1 MEANING AND SIGNIFICANCE OF ECCE

1.1.1 Meaning of ECCE

The term ECCE comprises of three key terms:- ‘Early Childhood’, ‘Care’, and

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 1