Developing Early Childhood Policy in Albania based on Scientific and Empiric Knowledge

Abstract

The main aim of this research paper is to analyze some of the major principlesof brain development during the first years of life so as to demonstrate the importanceof these years from the neurobiological perspective but as well to put emphasis on theenvironment in which this development take place. This article will analyze empiricalfindings in the field of program evaluation studies especially intervention and preventiveprograms during infancy and early childhood.Empirical findings reveal these programs are successful particularly whenimplemented during the first years of life. The discussion focuses on daycares in Albania,institutions which provide services for children of 6 months old until 3 years old. It hasbeen observed that Albanian daycares are not perceived as educational institutions becausethe concept of education is closely related with kindergartens and schools. This studyargues for the need to develop early childhood policy directly related with infancy andtoddlerhood which are based on scientific and empirical knowledge so as to create highqualitylearning and caring environments for children in their first years of life.