The 2nd International Conference on Early Childhood Education and Care takes place in Batumi, Georgia

Batumi, Adjara, 8-9 June 2023 - The 2^nd International Conference on Early Childhood Education and Care was organized in Batumi by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport of Adjara, Shota Rustaveli Batumi State University and the Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia with the support of UNICEF Georgia, and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The conference brought together experts, practitioners, and policymakers in the field of early childhood education to exchange knowledge, nurture collaboration, and drive advancements in quality early childhood education and care.

The theme of the conference "The Power of Play: The Central Pillar of Quality Early Childhood Education and Care," fostered academic and professional discussions highlighting the crucial role of play in young children’s development and learning. By emphasizing the importance of play, the conference aimed to inspire policymakers, educators, and caregivers to integrate play-based approaches into early childhood education and care settings.

The conference included sessions on play-based learning, observation, documentation, and assessment of children's learning and development, as well as the crucial role of parents, families, communities, and preschools in play-based learning. The conference also focused on professional competences and development necessary to promote play-based learning, as well as inclusive practices that consider cultural and linguistic diversity, gender, and the support of play for children with disabilities.

The pre-conference workshops provided practitioners with valuable insights on topics related to early childhood education and care practice. Additionally, the policy round table discussion engaged representatives from national and municipal governments to explore effective strategies for enhancing access to play through municipal policies. The webinars covered subjects such as music and drama in play, and alternative models of early and preschool education.

Quality early childhood education and care is the cornerstone of a child's lifelong development and well-being. By offering a holistic approach that encompasses cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development, the stage is set for children to acquire vital skills and competencies. Play based learning fosters creativity and imagination. Through play, children explore different roles, scenarios, and ideas, expanding their creative thinking and problem-solving abilities and enhancing their communication and social skills.