The Centre for Early Childhood Development has a vision to create a society that puts young children first, meaning that there is quality ECD services across South Africa, so that all children can grow and develop to their full potential. We firmly believe in the transformative power of ECD to reduce societal inequality, and as such our mission is to provide opportunities and support to children, breaking the cycle of poverty, and reducing inequality.
The Centre for Early Childhood Development (CECD) strengthens early childhood services through four key programmes. Our Integrated ECD Centre Programme provides a comprehensive approach, supporting teachers, principals, and centres with training, resources, compliance, business management, infrastructure upgrades, and health and safety equipment to ensure centres are sustainable and able to provide quality early learning. Our Family Outreach Programme empowers families in vulnerable communities to better care for and educate young children at home through home visits, parenting workshops, playgroups, food support, and psychosocial services. Our Advocacy and Social Justice Unit amplifies ECD voices by raising awareness of children’s rights and mobilising the sector around key campaigns to create an enabling environment for young children. Finally, our Research work deepens understanding of the importance, needs, and rights of young children and the ECD sector, helping to shape effective interventions and inform policy.