The first six years of a child's life are extremely important to their development. Studies indicate that children who are nurtured and given positive attention during the early years are less likely to develop learning, behavioural, emotional, and health problems.

To ensure children get the best start in life, Alberta Children and Youth Initiative (ACYI) partners developed Alberta's ECD strategy, which will enhance community capacity to provide a range of health, social and learning programs and services for parents, families and children from pre-conception to age six. The ACYI strategy for ECD recognizes the importance of a child's early years on their future development.