Early childhood development in Guyana

CHILDREN who attend childcare facilities need to be cared for in a special way by caregivers who understand the importance of early childhood development; because everything a child is exposed to in the early years can leave a lasting impression on that child.During early years’ development (zero to 3 years) a child’s brain is like a sponge, soaking up and processing information, whether good or bad. This is one reason why early childhood experiences should be as positive as possible.

From birth to 12 months, children grow rapidly. A child starts out as a mere babe in arms, and 1 year later you usually have a walking, inquisitive infant who wants to try out everything. This is the natural progression of a child; and while children are growing on the outside, they are also developing on the inside on many levels.

Children develop physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually, and through language and speech; but what do you think would happen to a baby if, during that baby’s first year of life, no one ever spoke to, or interacted with, that baby? What if that baby were never held close to another human being? What if that baby were never kissed or even soothed when he/she cried? What if that baby were never given a toy to hold or play with?

Can you begin to imagine what that baby’s state of mind would be? It may take a loving, caring adult a very long time to reverse that child’s mindset to a sense of wellbeing where his/her social, emotional, and intellectual skills can begin to develop and assist in the building of his/her character and personality.

Although this is an extreme example of how adults can impact child development, there are children in our society who miss out on many positive early years’ experiences. There are parents who would tell a crying toddler, “I gan dash two lash in you…Shut yuh mouth!” instead of trying to find out why the child is crying. There are bright, inquisitive children who want to learn and explore naturally, but their parents — who do not understand this — might say, “This child fast”, or “This is a disgusting child”.

No! That child is an open book longing to be filled by you with positive, valuable and new experiences.

Early childhood development is in our hands as adults and as a nation; that is why everyone across Guyana who owns a childcare facility or who cares for three or more children in their home is now required to be registered and licensed.

There are new regulations which govern how childcare facilities must operate, and the standard of childcare they must provide and maintain. The regulations cover things such as ‘caregiver to child ratio’ and the amount and type of resources that are available for the children to play with at each facility.

Staff and caregivers will need to be trained in childcare development, and emphasis on child safety is also an important factor. The objective is to get all childcare facilities at least up to a minimum standard, thus ensuring that children receive quality care during their early years.

To obtain a registration form, visit the Early Childhood Development Unit at the Childcare and Protection Agency at Broad and Charles Street, Charlestown; and if you would like to find out more about the new regulations, call 227-4085.

Parenting tip: Play is an important part of child development. Don’t deny your child their childhood. (If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the Childcare and Protection Hotline on 227-0979, or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com)