STRATEGIES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION POLICY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The paper examines the strategies for the implementation of early childhood education policy in Nigeria. Early childhood education is the overall development of the child socially, physically and intellectually. It is a major transformation in the live of the world’s youngest children, especially, in relation to school. Early childhood education is increasingly being confronted with number of challenges which demand urgent attention. These challenges tend to be characterized by poor nutrition/poor health, stunted growth/mental retardation, with the consequences of high attrition in schools, lack of skills, low literacy level and underdevelopment in the society. There is then a great concern about how the problems can be controlled so as to meet the needs of all concerned, as well as laying a solid foundation for the education systems in Nigeria. Consequently, the concept of early childhood right to education and national policy on childhood education are examined. Finally, the paper discusses implementation policy and measurement for the educational efficiency.