IECD Launches Directory for Home-Based Child Care Services; a new Resource to Enhance Access to Qualified Childminders in Seychelles

The Institute for Early Childhood Development (IECD) / UNESCO Category 2 Institute is pleased to announce the launch of its newly published Directory for Home-Based Registered Child Care Services in Seychelles. This comprehensive resource empowers parents to make informed decisions when selecting a qualified and trustworthy childminder for their child.

The directory features a network of registered childminders who provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment that fosters children’s learning and development. These dedicated caregivers offer a range of engaging activities to prepare children for crèche or preschool. Moreover, parents who enroll their children in registered home-based child care services are eligible for financial assistance under the Government’s Child Care Financial Assistance scheme. The IECD’s ultimate goals are to facilitate access to registered home-based child care services on Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, while also providing updated information to parents and the public on registered home-based child care services in the community.

In addition to the directory, IECD is also launching its e-newsletter, an advocacy tool that will keep the people informed about the Institute’s work in promoting early childhood development. As a Category 2 Institute under the auspices of UNESCO, IECD is now poised to reach a wider audience, including international stakeholders and partners beyond its borders.

To coincide with the launch of these initiatives, IECD will host a certificate ceremony for 43 participants who have successfully completed the Pre-Registration and Sensitisation Training Programme (PRESET), now in its 13th edition. The programme, which concluded in July 2024, covered the National Standards for Childminding Services under the IECD Regulation 2016. Upon receiving their certificates of completion, these prospective childminders will be eligible to begin the necessary formalities to register their services with IECD.

The ceremony will take place at the Savoy Resort and Spa on Friday 02nd August 2024 at 5:30 pm, where a group of childminders will also receive certificates for achieving 100% compliance with the 10 National Standards stipulated in the 2016 Regulation on National Standards for Childminding.

The media is cordially invited to cover this significant occasion. Please confirm your attendance by the end of business day on Wednesday 31st July, 2024.

……………………………………………………

For all queries about communications or media coverage kindly liaise with:

Ms. Shelda Commettant- Director of Advocacy and information on 2822261 or email Shelda.commettant@iecd.gov.sc