
Investing in the early years of a child’s life from conception to school going age is essential for ensuring they develop to their full potential and to break the cycle of poverty and inequality. Children who have positive early learning, and responsive caregiving before the age of 5 are more likely to do well in school, have good social and emotional skills, and go-on to have lives with improved earnings and opportunities.
Through our initiatives, we empower children, families, and educators, and foster a holistic approach to Early Childhood Development (ECD).
Child-centred
We believe every child deserves stories that reflect their world, so we provide locally relevant storybooks to ECD centres and families, sparking imagination and a love for reading. Moreover, supplying essential teaching materials and play equipment to create engaging environments in informal settlements, helping children learn and grow through play.


Parental support
Recognising that engaged and informed parents are vital for a child’s development, we conduct workshops focused on child development, health, and nutrition as well as parental wellbeing. Through peer counselling and support networks, we create safe spaces for parents to share their journeys, ensuring they feel supported and informed.
Educator training
Our training sessions for ECD teachers centre around play-based learning and nurturing care. By equipping educators with essential information, techniques, teaching aids and resources, we enhance the quality of education in informal settlements. We also advocate for parental engagement in supporting teachers and ECD services, raising awareness about the critical role of ECD in shaping children’s futures.

Community engagements
We believe in the power of community. Our outreach workers engage with political, religious, and traditional leaders, fostering collaboration and support for our initiatives. Through house-to-house visits, we share vital information, invite families to participate, and gather data to refine our programmes.
Investing in ECD centres
With the collaboration of our partners, we build new ECD centres, build classrooms and upgrade existing facilities, incorporating essential amenities such as toilets, playgrounds, and secure fencing. This transformation creates safe havens where children can learn and grow.
Data collection
Our approach is rooted in understanding the needs of the communities we serve. We collect and analyse data on ECD centres, resources, and community needs to make informed decisions that enhance our efforts and ensure our initiatives are effective and impactful.
Media outreach
Understanding the value of ECD is key for parents, teachers, community members to adopt behaviours to support children to thrive. Through the National Rights Start ECD Campaign utilises various media channels, including radio, television, publications, bulk SMS, and social media, to disseminate practical ECD information in English and local languages. Our goal is to empower every community in Namibia with the knowledge and resources they need to nurture their children effectively.
Videos
The Importance of Learning Through Play
Ndesh pre-primary and day care centre