Early Childhood Education (ECE) encompasses the care and education of children from birth to approximately age 6, before formal schooling begins. ECE programs include licensed childcare centres, preschools, nursery schools, and kindergarten. ECE professionals (Early Childhood Educators) require specialized training in child development, play-based learning, and age-appropriate curriculum. Research demonstrates that quality early childhood education significantly benefits children's cognitive, social, and emotional development, with lasting effects on educational achievement. In Canada, provinces regulate ECE through licensing requirements, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios. Recent federal-provincial agreements on $10-a-day childcare aim to improve ECE affordability and access. Municipalities may operate childcare centres, provide subsidies, and include childcare requirements in development approvals, recognizing ECE as essential community infrastructure.