Implementation of Child-Related Policies in Schooling

Abstract

Early childhood programmes are guided by policies. Policies are designed to help maximize the benefits for children during early childhood development. They are guidelines on how children should or should not be treated so as to safeguard and promote child rights and ensure provision for their needs. Appropriate policies in early childhood development potentially provide the children with a head-start and good foundation for social and educational progress. However, it has been observed that not all policies in early childhood are implemented as stipulated in the guidelines. This endangers not only the child but a whole future society. In Kenya there are a variety of policies related to services to children – educational policies, language policies, adoption policies, transport policies and policy on punishment, among others. This study sought to evaluate the status of implementation of selected child-related policies in schooling. The study was carried out among pre-primary and lower primary schools in Nyeri County, Kenya. A 14% sample which comprised 67 schools out of 480 was selected. Both stratified and random sampling methods were employed. Data was collected through observations, questionnaires and interviews. Cross-validation was done through triangulation process. CAQDAS was employed in qualitative data analysis to produce themes and trends. The findings show that majority of schools were aware and had the requisite resources and capacity to implement the policies governing early childhood programmes. However they were not strictly adhering to policies on child care and protection. It can be observed that less than 50% (250) of schools were adhering to specific legal requirements. There was a significant variation in policy implementation across private and public schools. Each category of schools was culpable in violating specific policies. Violation of policies posed a threat to children’s welfare. It is recommended that policy enforcement be strengthened to curb malpractices by some of the schools.