The Women and Child Development Ministry on Monday said it will launch a national curriculum for early childhood care and education for children from three to six years. The timeline for the launch has not been announced yet. The ministry also said that a national framework for early childhood stimulation for children from birth to three years will be launched.
The move comes in line with the National Education Policy 2020, recognizing the pivotal role of early childhood in shaping a child’s future.
With 85 per cent of brain development occurring before the age of six years, the ministry said it aims to make a concerted effort towards bolstering India’s early childhood care and education framework.
The ministry strives to offer comprehensive childcare support to women and children under the age of six through projects such as Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0, which are supported by Palna and the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) schemes. This includes maintaining a safe environment, providing nutritional assistance, and engaging in holistic developmental activities.
The National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) 2024 caters to all domains of development, fostering competency-based learning through playful, joy-based activities.
With a focus on quality improvement, the curriculum aims to align with the National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage 2022, preparing the children for primary education.
On the other hand, the National Framework for Early Childhood Stimulation 2024 aims to empower caregivers and Anganwadi workers with the knowledge and tools necessary for optimal early stimulation.
By emphasizing principles such as ‘serve and return’ and ‘love, talk, play,’ the framework aims to provide a nurturing environment conducive to holistic child development.
Both documents have been prepared by the National Institute for Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD), incorporating feedback from the Anganwadi workers to ensure flexibility and effectiveness.
The NIPCCD will spearhead the training of the Anganwadi functionaries on the new curriculum and framework.
The initiatives mark a significant step towards ensuring that every Anganwadi centre becomes a vibrant learning hub, fostering the holistic development of children across the nation.
Stay ahead with educational updates! Join our WhatsApp channel now for the latest insights and knowledge boosts. Don’t miss out, join today!
Get the latest news updates and stay informed with FELA NEWS!
(Source: NDTV)
