Early childhood development: Why it matters and how to support it

Kimberly Esing Contributor Early childhood development (ECD) is the period of rapid growth and change that starts before birth and lasts until the age of eight. ECD is important for the physical, cognitive, linguistic, social and emotional development of children, as well as for their future learning, health and well-being. ECD is influenced by various factors, such as genetics, nutrition, health, protection, responsive caregiving and early learning opportunities. ECD has long-term consequences for individuals and societies. Research shows that investing in ECD can yield significant returns in terms of educational achievement, economic productivity, responsible citizenship and social cohe