It has almost become a commonplace that the first thousand days of a child’s life (and by extension, the first 5-6 years) are crucial for its physical, social, emotional and cognitive development. Participation in quality early childhood care and education (ECCE) boosts school readiness, reduces grade repetition and dropout, and supports lifelong learning and health.

Yet while 89 % of children in high-income countries access ECCE, only 35 % do so in low-income countries - leaving almost two-thirds of the world’s poorest young children without these vital services.

This practical session is organised by HIVA/KU Leuven in collaboration with Humanity & Inclusion and VVOB, Education for Development.

Photo credit: Crolle Agency / HI