There is growing awareness of the importance of supporting
the development of young children as a key strategy for
reducing inequality.i Yet despite the focus on early childhood
development (ECD) in the Children’s Act,1 the phasing in of
grade R and a National Integrated Plan for ECD,2 there remain great
inequalities in access to quality ECD programmes and concern that
not enough is being done to maximise the potential of this sensitive
period of childhood. This is particularly true for the most vulnerable
young children – those living in poverty, in remote rural areas, and
children with disabilities. The failure of timely intervention is apparent
in South Africa’s poor schooling outcomes and low skills base.
This essay discusses why ECD is a recognised priority, points to
challenges and gaps, and suggests interventions for achieving better
outcomes. While “early childhood” is defined differently depending
on the sector and purpose, this essay focuses on birth to six years,
including the reception year of formal schooling that is being
phased in for five-year-olds. It addresses the following questions:
• Why is it important to invest in early childhood?
• What ECD services are available in South Africa?
• Who has access to ECD services?
• What is needed to reach the poorest and most vulnerable
children?
• What are the implications for policy and practice?