Early Child Development: Investing in the Future (World Bank, 1996, 112 pages): Part I. The theory: Approaches to the development of young children: (introductory text...)

Early Child Development: Investing in the Future (World Bank, 1996, 112 pages)

Part I. The theory

Approaches to the development of young children

		*(introductory text...)*
		Program design options
		Phasing the introduction of inputs
		Designing a program
		Working with NGOs and other agencies

(introductory text...)

You can always spot Comprehensive Preschool Education Program children. They are more enthusiastic about taking part in activities, and they know much more than the others.

- Nese Postalcilar, Istanbul nursery school teacher

Whether preschool programs focus on improving parents' teaching and child care skills, delivering services directly to the children, or improving the child care services available in the community, their ultimate goal is to improve young children's capacity to develop and learn. The most effective programs combine basic nutrition and health care services with activities designed to stimulate the children's mental, language, physical, and psychosocial skills-all of which are mutually reinforcing. Experience and research have definitively shown that enhancing the experience of children particularly disadvantaged children-from their youngest years substantially improves their potential for growth and development throughout life.