The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority has innovatively developed a new system aimed at evaluating the quality of spaces and services where children engage outside of schools and nurseries. This comprehensive initiative is grounded in six key criteria, which include safety, child development, staff efficiency, inclusivity, community engagement, and governance. The overarching goal is to provide safe and stimulating experiences for children from birth to the age of eight, while also assisting families in selecting activities and venues that cater to their specific needs.
A Unique Global Initiative
This evaluation system is recognised as the first of its kind globally due to its extensive application scope. It focuses on enhancing the quality of experiences available to children in various locations, from all-important learning and exploration to recreational activities. Areas targeted by the system include camps, after-school programmes, children’s libraries, parks, sports fields, children’s museums, cultural centres with designated children’s spaces, and family entertainment centres.
Initial Testing Phase
During the trial phase of the system, 35 establishments and service providers volunteered to participate, representing seven categories of child-specific experiences. These were selected from more than 270 eligible services across Abu Dhabi. The feedback from these participants is invaluable for refining the system before its formal launch and expanding its application.
The evaluation comprised over 75 field visits and more than 100 hours of direct support. Participants also undertook self-assessments and underwent independent reviews conducted by trained consultants, alongside gathering feedback from families utilising their services. This comprehensive approach has enabled these establishments to gain a clearer understanding of their service levels and the areas where enhancement is needed.
Six Key Criteria
The evaluation is rooted in six primary criteria: health and safety, child development and interaction, human capital, inclusion and diversity, community participation, and operational governance. This framework allows for a multifaceted review of the child experience within an establishment, identifying strengths and opportunities for improvement.
Encouraging Practical Enhancements
The preliminary impacts of participation are already evident, with several institutions proactively improving their child protection policies, enhancing staff training, acquiring certified first-aid qualifications, and expanding play areas for younger children. Moreover, some providers are exploring ways to give parents more insight into their children’s activities, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.
Positive Child Experiences
Dr Hanan Sukar, a consultant in early childhood care and education at the Authority, emphasised that the system provides a close examination of the experiences provided to children, highlighting both strengths and areas ripe for enhancement. The willingness among various sectors to evaluate and advance their practices fosters a greater focus on child safety, well-being, and joy in discovery.
Future Expansion Plans
As announced at the onset of system development, the Authority intends to offer support, guidance, and the necessary resources to improve services and programmes struggling to meet the criteria. Additionally, plans are underway to broaden the assessment scope in the future to encompass services for children up to the age of 18. The Authority continues to learn from the lessons of the current phase to further develop the system prior to its official launch.
Providers wishing to voluntarily contribute to enhancing quality throughout 2027 are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected]. In recognition of their invaluable contributions to testing and refining the system, the Authority recently honoured representatives from 35 establishments as “Quality Pioneers” during a ceremony held at the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, where participants received commemorative plaques and digital badges to denote their ongoing commitment to improving the quality of children’s experiences.