Abu Dhabi launches ‘Their Early Years Matter’ campaign to support young children
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) has started a new campaign called “Their Early Years Matter” to remind everyone how important the first years of a child’s life are from before birth up to the age of eight.
The campaign shows that these early years build the base for a child’s health, learning, and happiness. It encourages families and the whole community to see how small, everyday moments like reading, talking, or playing can help shape a child’s future.
This campaign leads up to Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, which will run from November 17 to 23 under the theme “Together We Can Make Abu Dhabi a Family-Friendly Emirate.” Families can visit www.adecweek.ae to learn more and join activities happening across the city. Experts say that early childhood is a very special time because a child’s brain grows faster than ever. Every second, more than one million new brain connections are formed. By the age of five, a child’s brain is about 90 percent developed, and they may already know around 10,000 words.
Studies also show that spending on early childhood care gives big long-term benefits. For every dirham invested, the community could save up to AED 22.40 later. When children grow up surrounded by love, care, and safety, they become confident, kind, and ready to learn helping families and society become stronger. Good nutrition, a safe home, and caring relationships also help children stay healthy in body and mind. These early experiences help kids develop important life skills like focus, problem-solving, and teamwork, which will help them succeed in school and beyond.
Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director of Special Projects and Partnerships at ECA, said that the early years are where every child’s story begins. “By investing in these years, we are building strong families, empowered communities, and a bright future for Abu Dhabi,” she said.
The ECA believes everyone families, schools, government, and businesses should work together to make sure every child grows up in a happy and caring place. During Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, the ECA invites all residents to take part in the celebrations and activities that highlight how every moment with a child helps build a better future for Abu Dhabi and the generations to come.
