On Saturday, 24th May 2025, the Institute for Early Childhood Development (IECD) – UNESCO Category 2 Institute officially unveiled a comprehensive Early Stimulation and Learning Programme designed for home-based child care services. The launch event took place at the Seychelles Trading Company (STC) Conference Room, coinciding with the celebration of Children’s Day, observed annually on 1st of June.
This event was significant as it marks the introduction of the first-ever Early Stimulation and Learning Programme for the home-based child care services and providers registered with IECD. The milestone initiative was conceptualized in 2020, with the development led by the ‘Early Learning Committee’ to enhance the quality of early childhood experiences, reinforce children’s early learning, and prepare them for future success. It forms part of the National Action Plan for Early Childhood Care and Education (2021-2022) and received partial funding from UNESCO under its participation programme.
Increasing evidence confirms high-quality early childhood experiences greatly influence a child’s holistic development and overall academic performance. A study conducted in 2018 in the homes by the Institute revealed an acute shortage of prelearning and developmentally appropriate resources, the absence of an early stimulation and learning programme for children aged 0-3, and limited capacity building for childminders and their assistants to meet the requirements of the national standards – in particular the ‘early learning’ and ‘interaction’.
Prior to the trial phase, registered childminders received training in the use of the programme and its supporting resources. The aim was to stimulate children from four months to three years old and cultivate a love for learning at a very young age, through a variety of play-based activities. The experimental phase lasted one year, during which childminders observed, evaluated, and provided feedback, leading to a comprehensive review by the Early Learning Committee. Based on these insights, necessary adjustments were made, resulting in a refined version of the programme.
The revised programme was piloted again in 2023 and 2024, with ongoing supervision and individualized support. Steady progress was made, with childminders reporting positive and rich experiences. They described the programme as ‘colourful,’ ‘simple,’ and ‘easy to follow,’ noting that the activities sparked children’s curiosity, creativity, and interest in learning—making their educational experience both enjoyable and meaningful. During the launch ceremony’s interactive session, several childminders shared their successful experiences, expressing gratitude to IECD and the support team, for such an amazing initiative which has contributed to laying the foundation for children’s development and continued impact of the programme.
As part of this phase, childminders and children collaborated to produce captivating artwork and pre-learning aids entirely from recycled and sustainable materials. These authentic creations were showcased at an exhibition, held in conjunction with Universal Children’s Day, and appreciated by everyone.
The new programme comprises of a comprehensive set of 10 monthly pre-learning activities focusing on language, communication, and pre-mathematics. It features four adapted and translated classic children’s stories and literatures in the mother tongue, in the form of big books, a childminder’s guide, a children’s progress record booklet, and a batch of accompanying handouts and resources. The materials are also available in English, with the intention of supporting replication and adaptation in other countries—particularly in regions where the 0-3 age stage remains underdeveloped, as part of the Institute’s international mandate as a UNESCO Category 2. Each registered childminder received a complete set of the programme and related resources to support effective implementation throughout 2025 and beyond. During the event, a group of children actively participated by showcasing their talents through singing, storytelling and dramatizing the classic story of ‘The Three Little Pigs’, demonstrating their confidence, independence and learning accomplishments.
Mrs. Shirley Choppy, CEO of IECD, highlighted the importance of early childhood development, stating, “The earliest years are the most vital for a child’s growth, with up to 90 percent of brain development occurring within the first three to five years. We must provide rich, stimulating experiences that foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth, establishing a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Introducing structured programmes and proper support mechanisms during this crucial period is essential to ensure children have the right and smart start that benefits them beyond early childhood stage.
The launch was graced by IECD Board Chairman, Dr. Javier Rose, and other distinguished guests, including members of the ECCE Technical Team, childminders, parents, children, and IECD staff.
