Socio-Economic Background and Child-Based Care Center Attendance in Malawi: Associations with Developmental Outcomes

Abstract

This study examines how child-based care centers in Malawi support the development of children from various socio-economic backgrounds. The research question investigates whether child-based care centers provide equal opportunities for children from different socio-economic backgrounds to develop their skills and abilities. The study uses a qualitative and quantitative research designs and analysis to explore the experiences of children attending child-based care centers in Malawi. The study involved observing classroom environments and interactions at 4 CBCCs, surveying early childhood caregivers, and conducting in-depth interviews with key members of the community The findings suggest that child-based care centers do provide equal opportunities for children from different socio-economic backgrounds to develop their skills and abilities. The study has implications for policy and practice in Malawi and contributes to the existing literature on child development and care in low-resource settings.