Chinese actress Ma Yili visits Liping County of Guizhou province to learn about integrated approaches to United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Early Childhood Development (ECD) project for children 0-3. [Photo/Official Weibo of UNICEF]

"Early Childhood Development is also the foundation for realizing the Sustainable Development Goals set for 2030," explained Karin Hulshof, UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and Pacific.

"This is my first visit to China and I'm so encouraged to see that China is leading the way on a comprehensive approach to ECD for the young. Investing in early childhood development is one of the most critical and cost-effective ways to improve adult health, education and productivity. It also empowers women, reduces violence, promotes environmental sensitivity, and can break the cycle of poverty to create a more sustainable and prosperous world."

Ma added, "What the child needs for growing up is not only food and clothes. They also have psychological and emotional needs. They need to live in a caring, protective and safe environment. These are all crucial to the whole life of the child."

"The first three years are very important for children's growth and development. You cannot miss it, for the window of opportunity is irreversible."

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