Early Childhood Development and Family (ECD&F) programme - Phase II

Early Childhood Development and Family (ECD&F) programme - Phase II built on the threepronged approach in the socioecological model, which is designed to transform children's lives by changing the way families and communities interact, nurture, and care for their children.

A. Effective and responsive care of the young child by the family and community

A safe and stimulating environment, safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, and caregiver's engagement are key determinants of children's growth and development. To facilitate a safe and healthy environment for the children, the Government of Rwanda and Imbuto Foundation agreed to establish one ECD centre of Excellence in each district, for a total of 30 centres.

B. Promoting access to and use of quality ECD and other basic social services for young children

Interventions in three critical areas (i.e. ECD, Education and Nutrition) were used to create social impact on poor children and those from families with low levels of education.

C. Implementation of child-sensitive policies

Interventions in the area of child-sensitive policies mainly centered around training caregivers on positive parenting approaches to protect children from violence and abuse. As part of the programme, Inshuti z'Umuryango (IZUs) were appointed, who were responsible for disseminating the information on child protection in their communities. They used booklets and training guides developed under the intervention and took part in in-service training with other stakeholders. The intervention also attempted to strengthen the coordination linkages at levels to facilitate the smooth flow of information and project activities.