This report highlights lessons learned about the implementation at scale of the Ghana Education Services Lively Minds (GES-LM) programme, which focuses on achieving quality and holistic early childhood development (ECD) for kindergarten (KG)-age children in rural Ghana. The programme seeks to improve the quality of learning and care in both KGs and at home, recognising that parents are the key to achieving this. KG teachers are trained to mobilise and train mothers in their community to deliver play schemes – structured play-based learning activities in small groups – to KG children.
The GES-LM programme also improves parenting knowledge, attitudes, and the quality and frequency of home-based learning and care through parenting workshops led by KG teachers that teach the importance of ECD and lessons on nutrition and hygiene, while building parents’ confidence. Teachers also broadcast local language radio programmes that provide practical information and ideas for parents across northern Ghana.