Question

‘The NEP lays a lot of impetus on Early Childhood Care and Education.’

1. List any two factors which have led to the increase in significance of ECCE in contemporary times.  (1)
2. State one contribution of each of the following in the field of ECCE:  (3)
   1. Piaget
   2. Vygotsky
   3. Maria Montessori

Answer 1

1. Two factors have led to the increase in the significance of ECCE in contemporary times:
   1. Breakdown of the traditional joint family, need for substitute care.
   2. Increased number of working mothers.
   3. Early childhood is a critical period for development.
   4. Holistic development of the child to realize his/her potential.
2. One contribution of each of the following in the field of ECCE:
   1. Piaget: To provide a stimulating environment to the child as the child explores the environment and learns from his/her own experiences.
   2. Vygotsky: A kind, caring and knowledgeable adult is required to care for children.
   3. Maria Montessori: The establishment of pre-schools for young children is based on the principles of early childhood education outlined by the well-known educationist Maria Montessori.