LAYING STRONG
FOUDATIONS
GROWTH
FOR LIFELONG
Early childhood is a unique window of opportunity. In the first years of life, a child’s brain develops faster than at any other stage, laying the groundwork for future learning, behavior, and health. Research shows that quality early childhood development programs significantly boost academic performance, emotional well-being, and long-term potential. Early investment—especially for children in rural or under-resourced communities—helps close developmental gaps before they widen.
In China, many children growing up in rural areas or in families affected by migration often experience disrupted care and limited access to early learning during their most critical years. World Vision works to ensure every child—regardless of where they are born—deserves a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment to grow, learn, and thrive.
In rural and low-income areas across 14 provinces in China, 36% to 46% of children under age five show signs of developmental delay.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Early Childhood Development and Parenting Interventions in Rural China
To make this possible, we implement our Early Childhood Development program through two globally recognized models: Go Baby Go (ages 0–3) and Learning Roots (ages 3–6). Together, they form a continuum of care and learning that supports children, families, and educators from infancy through early primary school.
For children
We create safe and stimulating environments where children can explore, play, and develop holistically—physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially. As they grow, we introduce them to age-appropriate books and engaging early learning activities, helping them build strong foundations in language, thinking, and social-emotional skills.
Caregivers play a vital role in a child’s development, and we empower them through parenting workshops that cover child development, nutrition, hygiene, and positive parenting. We also provide home visits and coaching to support responsive caregiving, while encouraging active participation in parent-child activities and peer learning groups. Families are equipped to nurture a love of learning through storytelling, play, and shared experiences.
For caregivers
We partner with kindergartens to improve classroom environments and provide training in child-centered, play-based, and developmentally appropriate teaching methods. Teachers receive ongoing coaching and support to innovate their curriculum, manage classrooms effectively, and create inclusive, engaging learning spaces.
For educators and local service providers
For community
We promote a culture of care and learning by establishing reading corners and child-friendly spaces. We mobilize volunteers and local organizations to support early learning initiatives and organize events that bring families together. Through these efforts, we build supportive ecosystems where children can thrive and communities can grow stronger together.
Love + ECD = A Thriving Child
Madam Tang is the steady, loving presence in her young granddaughter Xiaohan’s life. With both of Xiaohan’s parents working in another town, she takes on the daily responsibility of caring for the toddler. Most days, the television kept Xiaohan company while Madam Tang juggled household chores.
But something gnawed at her heart.
“Xiaohan was already a year and a half old and still wasn’t speaking,” she recalls. “I was so worried—was something wrong with her?”
That’s when World Vision’s Go Baby Go program arrived in their village. Through regular home visits, staff and trained community volunteers introduced Madam Tang to simple, practical ways she could support Xiaohan’s development.
They encouraged her to talk and sing with Xiaohan, respond to her gestures, take her outside to play with other children, and offer warm, attentive care throughout the day.
These small changes made a big difference.
“My granddaughter has changed a lot,” says Madam Tang. “Now she can say simple words and form short sentences. She even puts on her shoes and clothes by herself. She smiles more and enjoys playing and talking with other children—even with people she’s never met!”
In this village, families like Xiaohan’s—where grandparents are the primary caregivers—are not uncommon. Go Baby Go is helping these experienced but traditionally-minded caregivers move beyond just meeting physical needs, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to nurture their grandchildren’s development during the most critical early years of life.
Xiaohan enjoys a quiet moment of play with her grandmother, who gently guides her tiny hands.
Why It Matters
The earliest years of life shape everything that follows. Without nurturing care and early learning, children can fall behind before they even start school—affecting their confidence, relationships, and future opportunities.
Early support helps children build strong foundations for learning, resilience, and well-being. It also empowers families and communities to create environments where every child can grow up safe, supported, and ready to thrive.
Equip a Go Baby Go station
Your support helps establish a Go Baby Go station: a safe, welcoming space filled with books, toys, and learning tools that nurture early development, especially fine motor skills. Each station opens 18 hours a week and serves over 40 families, giving young children the chance to learn, play, and thrive—right in their own community.
Improve kindergarten quality for early learning
Help upgrade kindergarten facilities with age-appropriate books, learning corners, and outdoor play equipment. Your support also provides teacher training in child development, play-based learning, and participatory teaching—raising the quality of education for every child.
Support Parents and Caregivers
Your contribution helps provide training sessions, home visits for vulnerable families, parent support groups, and caregiver-child workshops. These activities give parents the skills and confidence to support their children’s growth and learning at home.
Donate today and help give every child the best start in life.
Your gift helps young children grow up in safe, caring environments where they can learn, play, and thrive—laying the foundation for a brighter future for families and communities.