Early Childhood Care and Education: Right to Survival and Development

Abstract

This chapter reiterates the significance of early childcare in promoting survival, development and participation of children. The salience of ECCE and ECD is underscored in the chapter by quoting brain research. The UNICEF model of care is presented which highlights the determinants of child survival and development. Linkages between infant care practices and its impact on survival are also explored. Objectives of ECCE programmes for the birth–6 years age group are discussed. Status of ECCE in India is cited. Then the chapter moves on to profile the governmental initiatives like Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), National Rural Health Mission, Reproductive and Child Health Scheme, Rajiv Gandhi Creche Scheme, Midday Meal programme, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Right to Education (RTE), which target infant survival, preschool education, elementary education and child health. The chapter winds up with a brief description of NGOs working for ECD like Mobile Creches, FORCES, Centre for Learning Resources (CLR), KATHA and Pratham