Why Early Childhood Development Matters More Than Ever
Imagine being a child, eager to learn, but starting Grade 1 without the basic skills you need. This is the reality for nearly half of South African children. Without the right start, many children find it hard to keep up in class, fall behind in reading and maths, and face a greater risk of dropping out as they grow older.
That is why Early Childhood Development (ECD) matters so much. Quality early learning programmes are not just about education; they give children the confidence and skills to succeed, stay in school, and dream bigger for their future and their families.
At The Lesedi Solar Park Trust, we believe every child deserves a strong start in life. That is why we have teamed up with programmes to help make this a reality in the communities we serve.
- SmartStart teams up with local practitioners to bring playful, hands-on learning to young children, helping them get ready for school in a way that’s fun and meaningful.
- Nal’ibali sparks a love for reading by giving children the chance to discover the magic of stories, whether at school or in the comfort of their homes.
- Wordworks supports teachers and parents, providing them with the tools to help young children develop language and literacy, so every child can find their voice and express themselves with confidence.
Together, these programmes address one of South Africa’s biggest challenges: ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and grow from the very beginning. By supporting children early on, we are not just preparing them for school; we are helping to raise the next generation of leaders, dreamers, and changemakers.
Investing in ECD is about so much more than care; it is about giving our children, and our country, the best possible future. When our children thrive, we all do.