Davao — The city is reinforcing its commitment to the future of its youngest citizens by launching a major campaign to boost enrollment in the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) program for 2026. Recognizing that the first few years of life are critical for brain development, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) is encouraging parents to register children aged 0 to 14 years old in local Child Development Centers. This government-funded initiative is entirely free, offering a structured environment where toddlers and young children can develop foundational skills, emotional resilience, and social confidence before they transition into the formal school system.
A Holistic Approach to Child Development
The ECCD program is far more than just "daycare"; it is a comprehensive system designed to foster a child’s emotional intelligence, moral values, and basic academic competencies. According to CSWDO Head Julie P. Dayaday, these centers play a vital role in helping children overcome common hurdles like separation anxiety, while simultaneously teaching them how to interact meaningfully with their peers. Through a mix of play-based learning and structured daily routines, children gain early exposure to basic concepts such as number recognition, color identification, and character-building activities. By engaging in these programs, children become more independent and better prepared for the rigorous demands of higher grade levels, setting them on a path toward lifelong academic success.
Ensuring Accessibility for All Dabawenyos
To ensure that every child has access to quality early education, the city has implemented diverse modalities to reach even the most remote areas. For barangays that do not yet have fixed development centers, the CSWDO deploys mobile ECCD units and utilizes alternative learning structures, such as the "Parents Teaching Other Parents" (PTOP) program. Additionally, the city operates specialized Child-Minding Centers in key areas for working parents, providing a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for infants and toddlers. Parents interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to visit their local barangay office or coordinate directly with their designated barangay social workers to secure a spot in this essential community program.
