During the first five years of a child's life, the brain increases 300% in size but more importantly, the neural connections which allow the brain to function increase even more. During the crucial first three years, synaptic linkages surge from zero to 1,000 trillion, far more than at any other time in life. One can therefore make the case that supporting early brain development is one of the most critical investments a society can make. In fact, Nobel Laureate James Heckman found that there is a positive 13% return on investment for early childhood education programmes.
In a study conducted by the Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society to better understand the early childhood education landscape in Thailand, we found that in Thailand 85% of children aged 3-6 attend some sort of educational programme with a range of approaches designed to meet the diverse needs of its young learners. These programmes are primarily grassroots efforts and community-led solutions which allow even the most marginalised children, from urban slums to construction sites in the north, to receive enriching early educational experiences. Many of these holistic educational programmes incorporate reading, special education and environmental learning, showcasing a successful melding of diverse educational components.
In alignment with broader educational trends, the study identified a shift towards child-centric methodologies in Thailand's early childhood education with a greater emphasis on play-based learning and hands-on experiences. Efforts include forming alliances for teacher and principal training, integrating play-based programmes across both private and public schools, and adopting evidence-based approaches to enhance educational outcomes.
Moreover, strategic partnerships and endorsements matter. Collaborations with the royal family, government, educational institutions, and the private sector expand the reach and longevity of these efforts. Such collaborations not only widen the reach but also reinforce the foundation for the enduring success of early childhood education in Thailand, amplifying its overall impact.
Despite progress, the study shows several avenues where philanthropy and other types of private social investment can make a transformative impact.
One of the most pressing needs is creating more programmes focusing on children under two when far fewer are able to access day care. Despite the willingness of most working parents to send their young children to school early, most early childhood education providers in Thailand cannot accommodate children under two and lack the expertise to implement age-appropriate educational curricula. By funding childcare centres, scholarships and parental leave subsidies, philanthropic efforts can lay a solid foundation for children's cognitive, social-emotional, and linguistic development, with benefits starting as early as with newborn babies.
Building organisational and teacher capacity stands out as another critical area where philanthropy can make an impact. Many early childhood education providers, both at the organisational and individual levels, grapple with accessing quality standards, evidence-based curricula and administrative expertise. Not only does this directly affect the educational outcome of children, but the lack of expertise, coupled with low-pay levels, is also leading to a downward spiral in the field, resulting in a shortage of qualified teachers. Philanthropic investments in training, quality assurance, and curriculum development on both the organisational and individual levels are essential to raising the standard of early childhood education provision across Thailand.
Last but not least, supporting impact evaluation and research can better guide the sector towards evidence-based interventions.
Currently, data collection and project evaluation are not prevalent within Thailand's early childhood education efforts. Given the critical nature of this early learning stage, implementing effective programmes and approaches is paramount. Philanthropy can play a role in this aspect by funding studies, pilot initiatives and project evaluations, contributing to a more effective and informed system.
Ensuring that every Thai child has access to high-quality early education represents an investment in a more promising future for the nation. It is a strategic commitment to the Thai society's long-term prosperity and resilience.
Ruth Shapiro, PhD, is Co-Founder & CEO is Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society.