First 1,000 Days and Beyond: Perspectives, Practices and Possibilities

What shapes a child’s earliest experiences? How can we support young children as they grow, play and learn? What possibilities does early childhood care and education offer those looking to work in the field?

We invite you to the second edition of our speaker series on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in India. Building on the conversations from the first edition, the series brings new voices and fresh perspectives on the people, practices and ideas shaping children’s early years.

The first 1,000 days and the years that follow lay important foundations for children’s health, development and learning. Supporting these years involves families, educators, communities and public systems, creating opportunities for people from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds.

Through this expert-led speaker series, faculty at Azim Premji University along with guests from the sector, will discuss the nuances of the mutli-sector domain in India. Drawing on research, practice and their professional journeys, speakers will explore the challenges, approaches and possibilities within ECCE in India.

Why join the conversations?

• Learn from people working in the field: Hear from practitioners, researchers and educators about their experiences and professional journeys.
• Connect ideas with practice: Explore approaches to supporting young children, families and communities, including thoughtful use of available resources.
• Understand the wider sector: Discuss how education, health, nutrition, care, policy and community engagement come together in the early years.
• Discover professional pathways: Explore opportunities in teaching, programme design, research, advocacy and public systems, and the knowledge and skills they require.
• Join the dialogue: Bring your questions and exchange perspectives with speakers and fellow participants.

Who should join?

• Fresh graduates from all disciplines: Graduates of arts, humanities, social sciences, sciences, commerce, management, engineering and other disciplines who are curious about ECCE and want to explore how their interests and skills connect with the field.
• Undergraduate and postgraduate students: Students exploring further study or career options, including those studying education, psychology, sociology, social work, human development, economics, public health, nutrition and related subjects.
• Teachers and early childhood educators: Preschool and primary school teachers, special educators, teacher educators and others looking to deepen their understanding of young children’s care, development and learning.
• Development and community professionals: Those working with children and families through NGOs, foundations, community organisations and education, health or nutrition programmes.
• Researchers and policy professionals: Those interested in early childhood research, programme evaluation, advocacy and the public systems that support children and families.
• Professionals considering a career change: Anyone exploring a transition into education, child development or the wider early childhood sector.
• Parents, caregivers and interested participants: Anyone who wants to better understand children’s early experiences and the environments that support their growth.

Join us to explore the early years and the many ways you can contribute to this field.

This webinar is hosted by Kinnari Pandya and School of Education, Azim Premji University.