Policy brief: Early childhood care and education (ECCE) in Asia-Pacific

Early childhood, a period ranging from birth to 8 years of age, is recognized as a critical period of development, having a long-term impact on the later stages of an individual’s life. Substantial research evidence has acknowledged the significance of early years on students’ learning outcomes, in particular in the early years of primary schooling, but also throughout a child’s education and on economic possibilities throughout life. Without the support of a stimulating and enabling environment and freedom from adversities (such as poverty, hunger, violence, exploitation or abuse), the growth, physiology and behaviour of a child are seriously affected, leading to potential problems in learning and development, emotional adjustment, and behaviour in later years. SDGs put a significant emphasis on ECCE and lifelong learning, while also acknowledging the link between ECCE and equity, productivity, and sustainable development and therefore a positive and successful future for the children.

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