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Source– This post on National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 is based on the article “Centre releases curriculum framework for anganwadis” published in “The Hindu” on 19th April 2024.
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) has released the National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 titled ‘Aadharshila,’ on the lines of the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework.
It is expected to bridge foundational literacy and numeracy gaps which may arise in later school years.
About National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024
1. MWCD has released the National Curriculum for Early Childhood Care and Education 2024 titled ‘Aadharshila.
2. Aadharshila (translated as foundation stone) is a detailed 48-week curriculum meant for learning in the age group of three to six-year-olds in anganwadis.
3. The curriculum aiming to develop key skills such as listening, vocabulary, imagination, narration, instruction following, creativity, social skills, self-expression, and self-esteem.
These competencies prepare children for a smooth transition into Grade 1.
4.The program is tailored for different ages, detailing required materials, age-appropriate specifications, variations, and teacher guidelines, including targeted educational objectives and competencies.
Activities are designed to observe and respond to the children’s interests.
5. The curriculum is structured around a weekly play calendar. Children aged three to six years participate in this mixed-age group setting at the anganwadi.
6. It starts with four weeks of initiation involving academic activities to ease children’s transition from home to the anganwadi center through engaging and playful interactions.
7. This is followed by 36 weeks including varied activities such as exploration, free play, conversations, creative arts, and reflection.
It also includes storytelling focused on themes like conflict resolution and cooperation, along with singing and crafting.
8. Children are introduced to various concepts such as colors, shapes, numbers, sensory uses, body parts, and personal relationships.
9. They also engage in activities that develop listening, basic numerical skills, sound recognition and imitation, and knowledge about seasons, festivals, and food.
10. The last eight weeks focus on reviewing and reinforcing previous learning through worksheets and performance assessments.
UPSC Syllabus: Schemes & Programmes
