Scoping Study of Early Learning in Kenya

Abstract

The importance of having a firm foundation in early learning cannot be over emphasized. It is at the early learning stage that the foundation is laid for future learning and development and early learning programs normally have a significant impact on future education outcomes. If children lack a firm foundation, it is likely that learning in later years will not be effective. Further, economics returns to education will be as high as they are at the Early Childhood Development (ECD) level of education. Yet, in spite of the social returns that would be realized from investing in ECD, countries have not either been able or willing to invest enough in this level of learning. International philanthropic organizations and donors have come in to help improve early learning because data shows that the more countries invest in early learning, the more economic returns they will get. There are many organizations that are or have been working in early learning. These include Van Leer Foundation, Aga Khan Foundation and World Vision.