Research is clear: in early childhood development quality is everything.
Children who attend a high-quality ECD programme are more likely to be developmentally on track, ready for school, and set on a stronger path for life. But research is equally clear on the reverse: attending a poor-quality ECD programme does little to nothing for a child’s development. Without quality, an ECD centre is simply childminding — a place children are safe for the day, but not a place where they are being prepared for school and for life.
Quality is determined by the adults who deliver it.
The knowledge, skills, care, and confidence of the practitioner in the classroom is the single strongest predictor of whether a child thrives.
That is why KET invests so much in practitioners and centre leaders. Buildings and equipment matter — but they cannot teach a child. Only a well-supported, well-trained, well-resourced practitioner can do that.
This is some of the most important work there is. When we get it right, children thrive, families are stronger, and whole communities benefit — for generations.
This section of the website
Here you will find how KET supports ECD in Knysna, the state of ECD in our municipality, guidance for parents on choosing a quality ECD centre, updates from the field, and ways to support this work.
Have a look at:
