Early Childhood and Pre-Tertiary Education: United States, Ghana and the EFA goals

This paper compares legislation between the United States and in Ghana in relation to formalized teacher preparation programs for teachers of young children between the years of  0 -8. The paper examines the basis for which formalized care in each country is needed; defines quality child care, and why pre-tertiary teachers’ specializing in early childhood education is essential. The paper also determines what is necessary to establish universal child care. The paper also shows that there are differences between the United States and Ghana in the current provision of early care and education for very young children; however, the findings suggest that Ghana is following a progression similar to that of the United States for pre-tertiary education. Offering early childhood bachelor degrees that include philosophical and sociological constructs, specialized content information, developmentally appropriate curriculum and assessment, as well as student teaching experiences, would help early childhood education graduates become effective teachers for young children 0 – 8 years of age. Full governmental funding for universal child care and pre-tertiary education is needed in both countries.  &nbsp