The Provisions of Learning Experiences in the Early Childhood Development Centers against the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the provision of learning experiences for early childhood development at Childhood Development Centers (CDCs) during the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on the "what" and "how" aspects. Data were collected from 57 participants through in-depth interviews and group interviews involving parents of young children, teachers/caregivers at CDCs, community leaders and committees, as well as relevant government agencies in two areas of Thailand. Content analysis was utilized to analyze the qualitative data gathered between July and November 2020. The findings revealed that CDCs employed various forms of capital, including: human, group and network, local wisdom, organizational, financial, and natural resources, to adhere to the National Childhood Development Center Standards. CDCs provided three distinct patterns of learning experiences for children: 1) Community participation within the local area, involving parents and networks associated with CDCs. 2) Enhancement of systems and mechanisms for collaboration with early childhood development among government, private sectors, and academic sectors at the district level. 3) Promotion of health and wellness among early childhood during the Covid-19 pandemic through encouraging child development, improving nutrition, and preventing the spread of Covid-19.