Education is essential for fostering the development of our society. “Education is fundamental for achieving full human potential, developing an equitable and just society and promoting national development” (Ministry of Human Resource Development, 2020). In the 21st century, an important reformation in the field of education is the introduction of National Education Policy 2020. From several researches, it has been found that prior to 6 years of age over 85% of a child’s cumulative brain development happens (Ministry of Human Resource Development, 2020). Recognizing this fact, NEP 2020 has brought a modified 5+3+3+4 pedagogical and curricular structure instead of 10+2 structure of school education (Ramavath, 2021). In the modified structure, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) has been given much importance for a child’s holistic healthy development. ECCE can be conceptualized as having “integral elements like care, health, nutrition and early education in a safe and conducive environment” (Kumar, 2023). According to National Education Policy 2020, “Universal provisioning of quality early childhood development, care, and education must thus be achieved as soon as possible, and no later than 2030, to ensure that all students entering Grade 1 are school ready” (Ministry of Human Resource Development, 2020). In this paper, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) will be discussed in relation to National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), including the importance of toys in childhood and how they can be used in the learning experiences of the children the period of early education.
Keywords: NEP 2020, Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), Universal Provision.