early childhood development program
(3) Early childhood development program The term “early childhood development program” means a program that seeks to ensure that every child has the conditions for healthy growth, nurturing family-based care, development and learning, and protection from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect, which may include— (A) a health, safe water, sanitation, and hygiene program that serves pregnant women, children younger than 5 years of age, and the parents of such children; (B) a nutrition program, combined with stimulating child development activity; (C) age appropriate cognitive stimulation, especially for newborns, infants, and toddlers, including an early childhood intervention program for children experiencing at-risk situations, developmental delays, disabilities, and behavioral and mental health conditions; (D) an early learning (36 months and younger), preschool, and basic education program for children until they reach 8 years of age or complete primary school; or (E) a child protection program, with an emphasis on the promotion of permanent, safe, and nurturing families, rather than placement in residential care or institutions, including for children with disabilities.