Abu Dhabi To Launch Quality Assessment System For Children's Programs

The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) has unveiled plans to establish a system for assessing the quality of programs and spaces available to young children beyond nurseries and schools. This announcement was made in celebration of Emirati Children's Day.

The system will evaluate a wide range of offerings, including camps, after-school activities, children's libraries, parks, playgrounds, museums, cultural centers with dedicated children's areas, family entertainment centers, and play zones.

The aim of this initiative is to assess and improve services available to families, ensuring that children in Abu Dhabi have access to safe, engaging, and high-quality experiences, WAM reported.

The assessment will be based on specific criteria that align with global best practices, while being tailored to the UAE's culture, values, and needs. Initially, the system will focus on services for children aged 0-8, with plans to expand to include children up to 18 years old in later phases.

Sana bint Mohamed Suhail, Minister of Family and Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), emphasized that quality is the top priority. She stated that the initiative aims to go beyond setting standards by improving the quality of services for children outside nurseries and schools.

The goal is to create meaningful and positive experiences for families, ensuring parents feel confident in the programs their children participate in.

By focusing on quality, safety, and enriching experiences, the initiative aims to create opportunities for every child in Abu Dhabi to learn, explore, and develop in supportive environments. Improving these services is also expected to make them more appealing to families.

As part of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority's (ECA) commitment to helping every child reach their full potential, high-quality services will be recognized. Those that do not meet the required standards will receive support, guidance, and resources to help them improve.

The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) is developing the system with input from various partners. These include government departments and organizations such as the Department of Community Development, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and Department of Economic Development.

Other key contributors include the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, Ministry of Education, Department of Health, Ma'an, Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Social Support Authority, Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, and the National Academy for Childhood Development.