Every Child Deserves the Best Start in Life
The first 8 years shape your child's future. Find guidance, tools, and resources tailored to your child's age to help them grow healthy, happy, and ready to learn.
Select your child's age group ↓
Pregnancy
Antenatal care, nutrition, bonding before birth, and maternal well-being.
0-3 Years
Breastfeeding, early stimulation, play ideas, sleep routines, and milestones.
3-6 Years
Pre-school readiness, language play, social skills, and daily routines.
6-8 Years
School transition, homework habits, independence, and emotional resilience.
Why Early Childhood Development Matters
The first 8 years of your child's life are the most important for their development. During this time, their brain grows faster than at any other stage, forming the foundation for all future learning, health, and behavior.
What you can do every day:
Talk, sing, read to your child every day — even before birth
Respond with love when your baby cries, babbles, or reaches out
Play together — it's how young children learn best
Visit the AWC for nutrition, growth monitoring, and pre-school
Key Topics for Parents
Nutrition & Feeding
What and how to feed your child at each stage
Nutrition & Feeding
Good nutrition is the foundation of your child's physical and mental development.
Explore topicHealth & Immunization
Vaccinations, check-ups, and staying healthy
Health & Immunization
Regular health check-ups and immunizations keep your child healthy and thriving.
Explore topicPlay & Early Learning
Activities that boost brain development
Play & Early Learning
Children learn best through play. Discover activities that stimulate growth.
Explore topicBonding & Emotional Care
Building trust and emotional security
Bonding & Emotional Care
Responding with love builds trust and a strong parent-child bond.
Explore topicSafety & Protection
Keeping your child safe at home and outside
Milestones & Development
What to expect as your child grows
Recently Published
Understanding Your Child's Nutritional Needs at Different Ages
Complete Immunization Schedule for Children 0-8 Years
10 Simple Activities to Boost Your Toddler's Brain Development
Building Strong Bonds: Responsive Caregiving Techniques
Childproofing Your Home: A Room-by-Room Checklist
Preparing Your Child for Pre-School: What Parents Need to Know
Common Questions from Parents
Find answers to frequently asked questions about child development, nutrition, health, and available services.
Visit your nearest Anganwadi Centre with your child's birth certificate and Aadhaar card. The Anganwadi Worker will help you complete the registration. Services are free for all children aged 6 months to 6 years.
AWCs provide supplementary nutrition, pre-school education (ECCE), growth monitoring, immunization support, and health check-ups. Pregnant and lactating mothers also receive nutrition support and counseling.
Contact your local ASHA worker or Anganwadi Worker. They conduct regular home visits for children under 3 years to support feeding practices, early stimulation, and monitor growth.
ASHA workers provide health education, accompany pregnant women for check-ups, ensure children receive immunizations, and connect families to health services.
Yes, all services at Anganwadi Centres including nutrition support, pre-school education, and health monitoring are completely free for eligible children and mothers.
Most AWCs operate from 9 AM to 1 PM, Monday to Saturday. However, timings may vary by location. Check with your local AWC for specific hours.
Yes, AWCs provide inclusive services. Children with special needs receive additional support and can be referred to specialized services if needed.
Contact your local Block Development Office, ask your ASHA worker, or visit the ICDS portal to find Anganwadi Centres in your area.
You'll need your child's birth certificate, Aadhaar card (if available), and proof of residence. The AWW can guide you if documents are missing.
Absolutely! Fathers are encouraged to participate in parenting sessions, growth monitoring, and all AWC activities. Father involvement benefits child development.