As at March 2026
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Parenting Spot
Take a look at the resources designed for all parents
Activities
Curriculum
Be guided by the national Curriculum
Resource Centres
The Early Childhood Commission
The Early Childhood Commission (ECC) was established by the Early Childhood Commission Act (2003), in keeping with the strategic goal of the Government of Jamaica to improve the quality of early childhood care, education and development within the early childhood sector.
The ECC, which is an agency of the Ministry of Education, coordinates all activities, development plans and programmes within the early childhood sector. This integrated approach is critical, as it serves to reduce fragmentation and duplication and has placed under one institutional umbrella, the regulations, standards and policies which govern the sector.
Our Mission
An integrated and coordinated delivery of quality early childhood programmes and services which provide equity and access for children from zero to eight years within healthy, safe and nurturing environments.
Our Vision
All children having access to high quality early childhood development services enabling the realization of their full potential.
Quality Policy Statement
The Early Childhood Commission is committed to provide an integrated and coordinated delivery of quality early childhood programmes and services within a healthy, safe and nurturing environment consistent with legal and regulatory requirements. We are committed to continual improvement in meeting or exceeding customer expectations through a highly efficient, motivated and performance-driven team.
Scope Statement
The Scope of the Early Childhood Commission is to improve the quality of early childhood care, education, and development within the early childhood sector through regulations and monitoring, and the provision of technical support services to our early childhood institutions and practitioners, operating from 7-9 Harbour Street, Kingston, Jamaica.
Curriculum
Be guided by the national Curriculum
The 12 Operating Standards for
for Early Childhood Institutions
Standard 1
Staffing
Program Info
The staff at early childhood institutions have the training, knowledge, skills and attitude to help children achieve their full potential
Standard 2
Development and Educational Programmes
Program Info
Early childhood institutions have comprehensive programmes designed to meet the language, physical, cognitive, creative, socio-emotional, spiritual, cultural and school readiness needs of children.
Standard 3
Interactions and Relationships With Children
Program Info
Early childhood staff has the training, knowledge, skills and attitude to promote positive behaviours in children.
Standard 4
Physical Environment
Program Info
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.
Standard 5
Indoor and Outdoor Equipment
Program Info
Early childhood institutions have indoor and outdoor equipment and furnishings that are safe, child-friendly and promote the optimal development of children.
Standard 6
Health
Program Info
Early childhood institutions have physical facilities, policies, programmes and procedures that promote healthy lifestyles and protect children and staff from illnesses.
Standard 7
Nutrition
Program Info
Early childhood institutions provide children in their care with nutritious meals and model good nutritional practices for children and families.
Standard 8
Safety
Program Info
Early childhood institutions provide safe indoor and outdoor environments for children, staff, stakeholders and visitors to the institution.
Standard 9
Child Rights, Child Protection and Equality
Program Info
Early childhood institutions uphold the rights of children and protect them from harm, and also ensure that all children have equal access to services.
Standard 10
Interactions with Parents and Community Members
Program Info
The management and staff of early childhood institutions have good relationships with parents, caregivers, family members and the community.
Standard 11
Administration
Program Info
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.
Standard 12
Finance
Program Info
Early childhood institutions have financial practices that adhere to standard accounting principles
The National Strategic Plan
In 2008, the ECC supported the implementation of the Government of Jamaica’s first National Strategic Plan (NSP) 2008-2013 for Early Childhood Development (ECD). The plan served as a roadmap for improving the quality of ECD in the country. The NSP is a five-year plan, which takes into consideration all areas of early childhood development.
- Effective Parenting Education and Support
- Effective Preventive Healthcare
- Early and effective screening, diagnosis and intervention
- Safe, learner-centred, well-maintained ECIs
- Effective curriculum delivery by trained early childhood development practitioners
- A coordinated approach to the delivery of ECD Services
- Evidence-based decision making
- Public Education
- Resource Mobilisation
Our Partners
Events
Upcoming Events
Professional Develpment Institute 2026
ECC's Annual Development Conference where we bring a World View of Early Years education to Jamaica
Days to PDI
Join thought leaders, educators, policymakers, parents, and advocates from Jamaica, the region, and the international community for five days of meaningful dialogue and practical exchange. The Professional Development Institute (PDI) 2026 offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of General Comment 7, strengthen rights-based approaches in early childhood practice, and contribute to innovative solutions that support children’s development, wellbeing, and protection.
Secure your place today and take part in shaping systems that make children’s rights real. Register now to be part of this transformative experience.
Latest News & Updates
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