Department focuses on early development
Early childhood is a crucial time in our lives.
It is a time when, ideally, children are nurtured physically, mentally and spiritually.
Their experiences in each of these dimensions shape their lives. A child whose health, well-being and intellect are protected and stimulated, has a strong platform for a happy, successful and balanced life.
According to Ms Phumla Sekhonyane, the spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE), early childhood development (ECD) refers to a comprehensive approach to policies and programmes for children from birth to nine years of age, with the active participation of parents and caregivers.
“Its purpose is to protect the child’s rights to develop his or her full, cognitive, emotional, social and physical potential,” she said.
The ECD is structured as follows:
- Birth to four years old.
- Five years old to grade R (reception year).
- Six to nine years old, the foundation phase.
The National Early Learning Developmental Standards further breaks down the age groups as follows:
- Babies: 0 to 18 months.
- Toddlers: 18 to 36 years.
- Young children: three to four years .
Early Childhood Development Programmes can be accessed from birth to five years.
