ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the current landscape of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in Tanzania. Discussions focus on the challenges faced in developing a cohesive strategy that builds on the strength of existing, cultural child-rearing practices and their potential in contributing towards children’s development. It argues that systems, policies and practices should be responsive to local needs and aspirations, an argument that builds upon a growing body of literature that recognizes the need to build upon Indigenous practices which promote children’s holistic development. Examples of these practices will be informed by the author’s 10 years of experience working with a number of ECD programs in Zambia and Tanzania. More recently this has included working as a National Trainer for Care for Child Development (CCD), engaged in delivering a holistic intervention program to support Tanzanian families in caring for their children’s health and development (UNICEF, 2012).
