The ECC was established by the ECA 2003, in keeping with the strategic goal of the Government of Jamaica to improve the quality of the early childhood care, education and development within early childhood sector. Under the Early Childhood Act (2005), an ECI is defined as any place that cares for four or more children, under the age of six years, for up to six hours per day. This includes nurseries, day care centres, basic schools, kindergartens, infant schools and infant departments. The Early Childhood Act (2005) and the Early Childhood Regulations (2005), describe the requirements that an ECI must meet in order to be registered by the ECC as a legally operating institution. The laws ensure that all ECIs provide the services that children need to grow and develop well. To guide compliance with the Act and Regulations, the ECC has developed a detailed document called ‘Standards for the Operation, Management and Administration of Early Childhood Institutions’ which is distributed to ECIs upon registration. There are twelve (12) categories of standards for the operation of ECIs which are as follows:
Staffing- The staff at early childhood institutions has the training, knowledge, skills and attitude to help children achieve their full potential. Development and Educational Programmes- Early childhood institutions have comprehensive programmes designed to meet the language, physical, cognitive, creative, socio-emotional, spiritual, cultural and school readiness needs of children. Interactions and Relationships with Children- Early childhood staff has the training, knowledge, skills and attitude to promote positive behaviours in children. Physical Environment- Early childhood institutions have physical environments that meet building, health and safety requirements, allow adequate space for children, and facilitate the development of children and staff. Indoor and Outdoor Equipment- Early childhood institutions have indoor and outdoor equipment and furnishings that are safe, child-friendly and promote the optimal development of children. Health- Early childhood institutions have physical facilities, policies, programmes and procedures that promote healthy lifestyles, and protect children and staff from illnesses. Nutrition- Early childhood institutions provide children in their care with nutritious meals and model good nutritional practices for children and families. Safety- Early childhood institutions provide safe indoor and outdoor environments for children, staff, stakeholders and visitors to the institution. Child Rights, Child Protection and Equality- Early childhood institutions uphold the rights of children and protect them from harm and also ensure that all children have equal access to services. Parent and Stakeholder Participation- The management and staff of early childhood institutions have good relationships with parents, caregivers, family members and the community. Administration- Early childhood institutions have management structures that ensure good administration. There are plans, policies, procedures and programmes that ensure child, family and staff well-being. Finance- Early childhood institutions have financial practices that adhere to standard accounting principles.
