Centre-Related Challenges in the Provision of Early Learning Opportunities in Kiambu County, Kenya: Implications for Children’s Development and Education
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70619/vol6iss7pp18-27-952Keywords:
Provision of early learning opportunities, centre related challenges, early childhood development centres, access to quality, inclusive education, Kiambu County, KenyaAbstract
Provision of quality early learning opportunities in Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres promotes adequate stimulation, development of school readiness skills, and holistic development of children. This study investigated centre-related challenges in the provision of early learning opportunities in ECD centres in Kiambaa Sub-county of Kiambu County in Kenya, as well as their implications on children’s development and education. The study used Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory (1970) to explore the multiple challenges in the provision of early learning opportunities in the ECD centres. The study used descriptive and qualitative methods to explore the existing challenges. The target population were 188 ECD centres from which 18 ECD centres were sampled. The study used questionnaires, interview schedules, and observation checklists to collect data, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and content analysis. Results showed that infrastructure and amenities in most ECD centers were inadequate due to insufficient funds and space. It was recommended that there is a need for the County Government to allocate more funds to public ECD centres for the development of more infrastructure and amenities to enhance the provision of early learning opportunities in the ECD centres.
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