Evidence-based response to early childhood development (ECD) during the Covid-19 crisis

IV. CONCLUDING REMARKS Due to the timing of our survey (in between the first and second wave of COVID-19) and its telephonic nature, our findings likely represent the best-case scenario children and their caregivers. Yet it is still evident that the pandemic disrupted the lives of millions, particularly those who were already vulnerable and disadvantaged. While caregivers and frontline workers have played a critical role in supporting young development across health, nutrition, caregiving and learning during this time, it has come at a huge personal cost to them. The pandemic has steeply escalated their workload and stress levels.

We hope that the findings from this report help continue the discussion around the importance of ECD and the impact of COVID-19 on ECD related outcomes. We have summarized below some of our recommendations coming out of this study.

Recommendations to better support frontline workers Recognize and celebrate frontline workers' efforts by acknowledging their contributions not just for COVIDfor the tremendous efforts they make for the health and wellbeing of the entire community.

In-depth interviews showed that this was an effective tactic to motivate workers and would likely contribute to longer-term efforts to improve social capital.

Where possible, rationalize roles and responsibilities of frontline workers to enable better prioritization of service delivery: Frontline workers have many responsibilities across health, nutrition, education, and caregiving. Supporting them in prioritizing efforts and having clearly delineated responsibilities can enable them to focus on core tasks, while also keeping their overall work hours under control.

In case of future COVID-19 waves, ensure safety gear and tools are provided to FLWs: While current trends suggest we may be seeing the end of pandemic conditions in the near future, should there be additional waves then it will be important to make sure FLWs have what they need to successfully perform their tasks.

Recommendations to better support children and their families Closely track reopening of AWCs and intervene to encourage attendance where needed: At the time of our study, nearly half of parents were not ready to send their young children back to school or AWCs. As states are reopening these facilities, it will be important to keep an eye on whether children are actually returning or not. Where needed, community level drives can help ensure that children are attending AWCs. Identify ways to c: Our findings suggest that fathers are spending an increasing amount of time with their children because of the crisis (although, still slightly lower compared to mothers)154. These interactions are particularly influential during the first three years of life, when brain growth is most rapid in children155. We should leverage this opportunity to encourage sustained interaction evidence-based program development, and targeted advocacy, such as the MenCare Program156.

Strengthen focus on all the components of nurturing: While planning for young children, it is important to consider all the aspects that impact their development and learning. It includes all the components as highlighted in the nurturing care framework - nutrition and health, responsive caregiving and opportunities for early learning. o Nutrition and health: Due to the economic effects of the pandemic, financial stability of many families has taken a hit. It is therefore important to ensure that children get proper 40 | Evidence-based response to ECD during the COVID-19 crisis