MORAL VALUES IN EARLY CHLDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION

Abstract

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is a crucial period of human development for moral values. It is the first step in the education ladder. Before the age of 5, every child will move to a ‘Preparatory Class’. It links between pre-primary and primary school education retention. The National Education Policy (2020) stresses the importance of ECCE. It provides a crucial input in the strategy of human resource development. This development is one and only possible by the moral values in ECCE. Instill moral values in daily activities such as love, kindness, righteous conduct, hard work, respect for others, cooperation, compassion, forgiveness, faith, purity and non-violence can be taught through daily routines in ECCE centers (ICDS, Anganwadis, Balwadis, Creches, Day Care Centres etc.) for holistic development. It is only possible when it is followed by the strategy of personal example, moral stories and positive environment. The promotion of moral values demands strong emphasis on the role of both agents (teacher, parents and others) and agencies (ECCE centers, family, society etc.). A safe, stable and loving environment is essential for child’s moral and behavioural development. Children are learning from what they see and feel around them. This education serves as a stepping stone to child’s habit formation, resilience, character building, conflict resolution, adaptation, and future happiness. Moreover, moral value in ECCE prevents deviant behavior, improves the social skills and forms a positive character.