Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
4. The COVID-19 pandemic has again stressed on the importance of the role of parents in supporting the early learning of young children which is well captured in National Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) Curriculum framework. Discuss the need and benefits of the same. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
In a recent study by the Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, 45% of the 650+ households surveyed in urban Maharashtra reported that they prioritise their older child’s education over ECE.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about importance of ECCE in the overall development of Children.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning that the three years of ECCE and early primary grades (Classes 1 and 2) are proposed as a continuum of learning and referred to as the foundational stage of school.
Body:
First, mention that ECCE should be based on the Child’s development context and varies with their background and therefore ECCE only gives a framework rather than a detailed step-by-step procedure.
Next, bring out the various benefits such as development of cognitive, motor skills and learning abilities of children exposed to early learning promoting school retentions in the later years of their lives.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that the present Anganwadi schools in rural areas and pre schools in urban areas may be channelised to promote Early education in Children.
