Beyond feeders and growers: Changing conceptions of care in the Western Cape

Abstract

This paper summarises reciprocal learning between the author and South African colleagues and caregivers during a curriculum development project for birth-to-three caregivers in peri-urban settlements in the Western Cape. The curriculum was conceived as a self-conscious blending of Western scientific ideas of early development with African values and patterns of care, emphasising the importance of early emotional development. Over a three-year-period the course was refined through pilot trainings and is now available through Grassroots Educare Trust, to be used countrywide. The shared learning from all parties involved speaks to the need for greater resources to be provided and for more attention be paid to the learning and wellbeing of informal caregivers. It also points to the need for increased collaboration between the rather separate worlds of early care/education and infant mental health.