Growing Through Play: Role of ECD in Shaping Young Minds

Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers are designed to foster child-friendly environments that support social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth. Shree Sarashwoti Secondary School located in Magar Gaun, Konjyosome Rural Municipality, offers classes from Early childhood development (ECD) upto grade 10. This school has been incorporated during the execution of READ Child-III, the third phase of READ Child project.

Before the school received support from the READ Child-III project, the condition of the ECD classroom was in a very poor state. Essential facilities like carpeting & cushions, educational materials etc. were lacking, and children had to sit on cold floors in unsafe & poorly equipped classrooms. Due to the financial constraints of school, improving the situation on their own had been a big challenge. The facilitators working in ECD had long hoped for assistance from government as well as potential donor organization to enhance the learning environment for these young children.

With the initiation of READ Child-III project, this ECD has been incorporated as on of the support school. With the execution of project activities, the impact could be viewed immediately in a transformative way. The ECD classroom was completely revamped. Today, the ECD is not only safe and secure but also a child-friendly, well-equipped, and visually appealing. The classroom features designated activity corners for reading, art, indoor games, and even a sleeping area for young children. Warm carpets have been added, and various educational tools like books, puzzles, and toys are available to enhance the learning experience. These changes have made the classroom more enjoyable for the children, significantly increasing their enthusiasm for school.

This year, many new children, including three-year-old Sadikshya Ghising, have joined ECD. Sadikshya is the only child of her family and her family depends on agriculture for their livelihood like most in the village. Everything in ECD was unfamiliar to her in the beginning —from toys and classroom setting to activities and classmates. Though initially shy, her curiosity has sparked active participation as she eagerly explores and learns through observing others. Her excitement is clear when she manages new tasks, clapping happily for herself.

ECD facilitator Ms. Kamala Ghalan carefully observes Sadikshya’s progress. Despite her initial reticence, Sadikshya is an attentive learner, often watching and listening to others even when she doesn’t speak. With regular attendance, she’s adapting well to the routines of the center, building foundational skills in socializing, emotional expression, and intellectual engagement. As part of her early skill development, Sadikshya is encouraged to participate, interact, and build confidence in herself.

The ECD center provides a nurturing environment specifically designed for young learners’ growth, yet many rural centers still lack such resources. NEW Initiative, through its “READ Child III” project, aims to address this gap by enhancing pre-primary education quality. As one of six model schools involved, Shree Sarashwoti’s ECD program is helping children like Sadikshya prepare for formal education, nurturing their potential in a holistic, child-centered space.

This project is being supported by Moving Mountains e.V., Germany.