Families’ knowledge and attitudes about early childhood care and development

The study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of families in Moldova regarding early childhood care and development. It highlights key findings about parental understandings of child development, the accessibility and quality of early education services, and societal attitudes toward caregiving roles. It identifies gaps in knowledge and systemic challenges affecting early childhood outcomes. It also provides recommendations for improving parental support, strengthening institutional frameworks, and fostering inclusive practices to ensure optimal development opportunities for young children.

Positive and supportive parenting practices are essential for the physical and mental development and well-being of children from an early age, through childhood, adolescence and into adulthood. They are an integral part of a safe, secure and nurturing family environment and include providing positive role models, setting appropriate limits and enforcing them consistently. This study measures the evolution of the situation over time in the main areas of early child development, highlighting the needs, directions and areas of intervention regarding early childhood development, improving parental skills – especially skills regarding child nutrition and hygiene – timely recognition of danger signs and correct conduct during illnesses, as well as cognitive and intellectual stimulation for children.

Source: UNICEF, 2023