The first five years of a child’s life are the foundation for future learning, health, and success. Early Childhood Development (ECD) is not just about education—it’s about nutrition, protection, responsive caregiving, and opportunities to learn. Without these, children risk cognitive delays, poor health, and lower economic opportunities in adulthood.

• 3% of children under 5 in low-income countries are at risk of poor development due to poverty, malnutrition, and lack of early stimulation (Lancet, 2023)
• More than 80 million children aged 3–5 in LMICs are not on track for cognitive and/or social-emotional development (UNICEF, 2022)
• Quality early learning programs can increase school readiness by 50% and lead to higher income levels in adulthood (World Bank, 2023)
• Children who attend ECD programs are 25% more likely to complete primary education (UNESCO, 2022).