Early childhood care and education: A critical analysis

Abstract

Early childhood care and education brings prosperity to a person’s life, and is a blessing to his or her family and to society as a whole. These are the moments of the dawn of life in which the physical and mental health of the child develops. Skills can be developed in children through Early Childhood Care and Education. In these moments, if the child gets proper care, nutritious food, healthy environment, quality education and social security, then the future of him and the society also becomes secure. In this paper, a critical analysis is made of the legal framework relating to early childhood care and education in India. Despite various national policies and plans, India is still struggling to implement early childhood care and education system. Pre-schooling is not inclusive and children from marginalized sections of the society do not have access to crèches or kindergartens. In conclusion, the paper suggests some suggestions.