early childhood development program
Defined in 1 dictionary — U.S. Code
United States Code
22 U.S.C. § 2152k — in this section
The term "early childhood development program" means a program that seeks to ensure that every child has the conditions for healthy growth, nurturing family-based care, development and learning, and protection from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect, which may include—
(A) a health, safe water, sanitation, and hygiene program that serves pregnant women, children younger than 5 years of age, and the parents of such children;
(B) a nutrition program, combined with stimulating child development activity;
(C) age appropriate cognitive stimulation, especially for newborns, infants, and toddlers, including an early childhood intervention program for children experiencing at-risk situations, developmental delays, disabilities, and behavioral and mental health conditions;
(D) an early learning (36 months and younger), preschool, and basic education program for children until they reach 8 years of age or complete primary school; or
(E) a child protection program, with an emphasis on the promotion of permanent, safe, and nurturing families, rather than placement in residential care or institutions, including for children with disabilities.