Early childhood development is not a luxury − it’s a right
Kindergarten children being served lunch at an SOS Early Childhood Development centre in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
The Right to a Good Start in Life, a new global report, was developed by a coalition of child-rights organizations, including SOS Children’s Villages. It makes a clear case that children must be prioritized in global policy and investment.
Why early childhood development matters
From birth to age eight, the foundation for a child’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development is laid. During this period, children need nurturing care, access to healthcare, protection, and opportunities to learn through play.
But too many children, especially those affected by conflict, displacement, climate shocks, or loss of parental care, are being left behind.
Failing to invest in early childhood is not only a missed opportunity but also a breach of children's rights.
Report highlights
Child rights: Early childhood development is a right under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Development: Nurturing care, including health, protection, and early learning, lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong wellbeing.
Equity: Children in fragile contexts face the greatest barriers and must be at the centre of response and recovery efforts.
Education: Free pre-primary education should be recognized and guaranteed for all children.
Why this matters for children and families
The early years are a once-only window. When young children miss out on nurturing care, health, protection, and early learning, the harm can be irreversible. Acting now is both a legal obligation under international law and one of the most effective investments in inclusion, peace, and long-term development.
At SOS Children’s Villages, we work to keep families together, protect children, and ensure quality early childhood care and education, especially in fragile and humanitarian contexts.
Learn more and take action
Together, we can help ensure every child gets the nurturing start they need to survive, learn, and thrive.
Read the report: The Right to a Good Start in Life
Stand with children and families.