Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is a multidisciplinary field that draws on insights from psychology, human development, and sociology. ECCE is important because it takes place during a time of significant brain development for children. The goal of ECCE is to support the holistic development of children, which includes their cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and ethical aspects.
Here are some ways that psychology is relevant to ECCE:
Attachment theory
ECEC professionals can use attachment theory to create a child-centered approach that supports each child's unique needs and rights. This can help enhance a child's developmental potential.
Nature-based environments
Some psycho-evolutionary and psycho-functionalist theories suggest that nature-based environments are more restorative than non-nature-based environments. This can contribute to play quality.
The quality of an ECCE program is largely influenced by the quality of its curriculum. ECCE programs can include center-based programs for children, as well as programs for parents and children, such as health and nutrition interventions and prenatal programs