Explore ECED-FLN Policy Documents

Browse ECED-FLN reports, policy papers, and resources from across Africa.

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PDF 2020
Exploring the Experiences in Mainstream Schools with the Implementation of the Policy on Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS)

This master's dissertation investigates the implementation of South Africa's SIAS inclusive education policy in primary schools. It highlights challenges such as resource constraints and teacher readiness, offering recommendations to improve support for learners experiencing barriers to learning.

PDF 2020
From Traditional Learning to Modern Education: Understanding the Value of Play in Africa’s Childhood Development

This study assesses the historical and contemporary value of traditional African play in early childhood development, utilizing documentary analysis and educator surveys in South Africa and Nigeria. It highlights how indigenous play enhances holistic child development and calls for a trado-modern pedagogical approach in modern African education systems.

PDF 2020
African Union Initiative on Strengthening Regional and National Capacity and Action against Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OCSEA) in Africa: Strategy and Plan of Action 2020–2025

This African Union strategic plan and action framework addresses child protection, safety, and welfare by combating online child sexual exploitation and abuse across member states, directly aligning with regional mandates on child rights and early development.

PDF 2020
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Birth Defects Among Newborns in Sub-Saharan African Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis examines the pooled prevalence and risk factors of birth defects among newborns in sub-Saharan Africa. Findings highlight regional variations and critical preventive factors such as maternal folic acid supplementation, relevant to early childhood development and child health planning.

PDF 2019
Positive Behaviour Support in South African Foundation Phase Classrooms: Teacher Reflections

This study evaluates the implementation of a Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) model within an inclusive education teacher training module for South African Foundation Phase teachers. Findings indicate that teachers developed critical insights into ecosystemic challenges and valued PBS strategies for promoting positive, non-punitive classroom behaviour.

PDF 2019
Caring for the Caregiver: Implementer's Guide

This UNICEF implementation guide provides foundational training materials for frontline workers to support caregiver mental health and emotional well-being, promoting responsive caregiving and nurturing care for young children in Africa.

PDF 2019
Thrive: Nurturing Care for Early Childhood Development - Africa Country Profiles

This document presents country and regional profiles of early childhood development indicators for Africa, established to monitor the Nurturing Care Framework and track progress on health, nutrition, early learning, and responsive caregiving.

PDF 2018
The Quality of Learning and Care at Community-Based Early Childhood Development Centers in Malawi

This study examines the strengths and challenges of early childhood care and learning across community-based childcare centers (CBCCs) in Malawi. It highlights key issues such as volunteer caregiver capacity and learning material shortages, emphasizing the need for targeted support to improve young children's developmental outcomes.

PDF 2018
Nurturing Care for Early Childhood Development: A Framework for Helping Children Survive and Thrive

This WHO, UNICEF, and World Bank framework outlines strategic actions to help parents and caregivers provide nurturing care for early childhood development. It emphasizes health, nutrition, security, and responsive caregiving during a child's earliest years to lay the foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.

PDF 2018
WHO Recommendations on Caregiving Interventions to Support Early Child Development in the First Three Years of Life: Systematic Review

This systematic review evaluates evidence on the effectiveness of responsive caregiving, early learning promotions, and combined nutrition interventions on early child development outcomes in children under three.

PDF 2018
CESA Early Childhood Education and Development Cluster Paper on Early Childhood Education in Africa

This paper provides AU Member States with evidence on the current status of Early Childhood Education in Africa, highlighting access, quality, and equity challenges. It outlines recommendations for achieving CESA 2016-2025 goals and Sustainable Development Goals related to young children.

PDF 2017
First 1000 Days: The Critical Window to Ensure Children Survive and Thrive in South Africa

This UNICEF document outlines the critical importance of the first 1,000 days of life in South Africa, focusing on maternal and child health, nutrition, stunting prevention, and early childhood development linkages to ensure optimal lifelong learning and health.