Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) has launched the ‘Their Early Years Matter Campaign’ to raise awareness about the importance of the early years of life, from conception to the age of eight. The campaign emphasizes that these formative years are crucial for every child’s lifelong health, learning, and wellbeing, urging families and the wider community to recognize the impact of everyday moments in shaping the future of children and society.
According to Emirates News Agency, serving as an educational initiative ahead of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, the campaign will run under the theme “Together We Can Make Abu Dhabi a Family-Friendly Emirate” from 17th to 23rd November. Families are encouraged to visit www.adecweek.ae to learn more about the campaign and explore upcoming events and activities across the emirate.
The early years represent a unique window of opportunity when a child’s brain undergoes rapid development, forming over one million new neural connections every second. By age five, approximately 90 percent of brain development is complete, with children able to recognize at least 10,000 words, showcasing the extraordinary pace of vocabulary growth during this stage. Research indicates that investing in early childhood yields returns of up to 13 percent per year, with each dirham spent potentially saving up to AED22.40 in future costs.
The ECA highlights that early childhood experiences also influence physical and mental health. Proper nutrition, responsive care, and safe environments are crucial in supporting lifelong physical and mental health, reducing the risk of chronic illness later in life. The early years lay the groundwork for essential skills such as focus, adaptability, problem-solving, and cooperation, vital for success in school, relationships, and society.
Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director, Special Projects and Partnerships, ECA, stated, “The early years are where every child’s journey begins and where the foundation of our collective future is built. Through this educational campaign, we aim to inspire parents, caregivers, and the wider community to recognize that by investing in the early years of a child, we are strengthening families, empowering communities, and securing a brighter future for Abu Dhabi.”
ECA stressed that investing in the early years is a shared societal commitment requiring collaboration across government, private, and community sectors to create a nurturing and inclusive environment for every child. Through Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, the Authority invites everyone to participate in activities across the emirate, celebrating children’s potential and highlighting that every moment spent with them contributes to building a brighter future for Abu Dhabi and generations to come.