Page 4 - Final Lesson-1.pmd

Early Childhood Care and Education : Meaning and Significance

1.3 COMPONENTS OF ECCE

ECCE is an integrated programme consisting of various components which
Notes together contribute to the development and wellbeing of children. Let us study
its key components in detail.

Fig 1.1 Components of ECCE

1.3.1 Health, Nutrition and Hygiene

This component consists of providing regular health interventions to both the
mother and the child. It encompasses providing prenatal and postnatal care to the
mother in terms of provision of healthy nutritious food, timely immunization of
the pregnant mother, regular health checkups, stress-free environment and safe
child birth at a hospital or a health centre.

Similarly, all children need to be provided with a healthy and hygienic environment
comprising of well-balanced and nutritious food, protection from infections,
timely immunization and provision for medical care.

1.3.2 Care and Protection

A physically and emotionally safe, secure and protective environment is essential
for all children for their optimum growth and healthy development. Providing a
caring and protective environment is an integral component of ECCE. It is essential
for caregivers to ensure psychological and socio-emotional needs of children. It
can be done by responding to their needs through appropriate stimulation,
supportive and warm interaction and ensuring a healthy and safe environment.

1.3.3 Early Stimulation

As you have read, development takes place in physical-motor, social-emotional,
cognitive and language domains, all of which are interdependent. During the first
few years of life, rapid growth and development occur in all domains of
development.
4 EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION