Educational intervention programmes for very young children : an overview, with specific reference to the home early learning programme of the Athlone Early Learning Centre

The concept of educational intervention for very young children is discussed from the standpoint of ethical implications, practical implementation and effectiveness. Specific programmes are described as background to the Home Early Learning Programme and the Creche Programme of the Athlone Early Learning Centre. Using a newly developed instrument, viz. the Grover Developmental Charts for Very Young Children, 36 children participating in the Home Early Learning Programme and 24 children attending the Creche, were assessed. They were divided into four equal age groups, i.e. 15, 21, 27 and 33 months. Number of home visits received/number of months spent at the Creche were correlated with deviation scores obtained from the Grover Developmental Charts. Results computed indicate that Creche children show statistically significant improvement over time on Chart 3 (Socialisation) and Chart 5 (Expressive Communication), while children participating in the Home Early Learning Programme show statistically significant improvement on Chart 2 (Interaction with Objects, Dexterity and Fine Coordination) . Significant differences between the two groups were found on Chart 5 (in favour of the Creche children) and Chart 2 (in favour of .the Home Early Learning Programme children). It is suggested, however, that these results should be treated with caution, and the difficulties inherent in testing young children are discussed. The importance of qualitative evaluation in defining success in this field is emphasized.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Psychology

Year dc:date.issued

1979

Author dc:creator

• Stern, Naomi Raina Ann

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Abromowitz, Arnold

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/12607

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/12607