CAREGIVER-RELATED CHALLENGES IN THE PROVISION OF EARLY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES IN EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT CENTRES IN KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA
Keywords:
Early childhood learning, caregiver challenges of early childhood learning, early childhood development centres, Kiambaa, KiambuAbstract
This study examined the challenges faced by caregivers in Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) in Kiambaa sub-county, Kiambu County. The study was anchored in Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, which helped identify external environmental factors contributing to caregiver challenges. The study used mixed-methods research with a descriptive cross-sectional design. The target population comprised caregivers and managers from across 18 ECDE centres. The study adopted multiple sampling approaches. First, the study purposively selected locations based on population dynamics. Second, a stratified approach was adopted where the nature of the ECDE centre (whether public or private) was used as the main strata. The findings indicated that low motivation was the most significant challenge faced by caregivers, followed by heavy workloads and limited training opportunities. Limited access to training was associated with limited professional skills, technical competencies, and digital literacy. The workloads and external challenges faced were associated with psychological stress and emotional strain, affecting the ability of caregivers to commit and concentrate. The study recommends that county governments and relevant stakeholders increase remuneration and offer permanent contracts to address motivation, the most common challenge. Lastly, the study recommends institutionalizing professional development programs to ensure caregivers have the skills and capabilities needed to deliver holistic development in ECDE contexts.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Joan Njoki Mong'are, Nyakwara Begi, George Mathenge Wairungu
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