Twelve who survive : strengthening programmes of early childhood development in the Third World

This book examines existing child development programs and provides recommendations for improving them. Part 1 documents the evolution and current configuration of child care and development programs, with emphasis on the period after 1979, the International Year of the Child. Part 2 seeks to clarify key concepts in the literature on early childhood development. From this review, a comprehensive programming strategy is suggested combining stages of development with five complementary approaches (direct attention, education of caregivers, community development, strengthening institutions, and strengthening awareness and demand) and with several program guidelines (emphasize children at risk, be comprehensive and participatory, adjust to the cultural context, reinforce and complement local ways, and seek cost-effective solutions having the potential for maximal coverage). Part 3 presents a "state of the practice", describing and assessing a range of program options available for carrying out the five complementary approaches; the advantages and disadvantages of each approach are considered, and specific examples of programs are described briefly. Part 4 discusses problems in combining the program elements. Individual chapters deal with: relating health and nutrition to social and psychological well-being; combining child development programs with primary level schooling; and integrating child care programs with efforts to improve women"s work and welfare. Parts 5 and 6 treat community involvement, the importance of identifying and respecting traditional wisdom in childrearing, and issues of scale and costs. A final part sets out conclusions and recommendations. (Author abstract, modified)