THEY came dressed as characters from books.
They were pre-schoolers at the Suva YMCA Child Care Pre-school who celebrated National Early Childhood Week yesterday.
Pre-school supervisor Maria Logavatu said the character parade was one way of developing children's physical and emotional skills.
"Early childhood education is very important especially for children who have not yet started primary school," she said.
"It teaches them to be independent and responsible. It also engages the young in hands-on activities that would prepare them for the start of Class One.
"We organised different activities for the children this week including a night camp tomorrow (today) and a sports day to end the program."
Ms Logavatu said the 25 pre-schoolers aged between 4-5 years old came dressed as their favourite superhero character, a princess and fireman.
Fiji Early Childhood Association president Unaisi Tuivaga said earlier the annual celebrations are part of the association's efforts to advocate on behalf of young children.
"Studies carried out globally for early childhood program effectiveness have shown compelling evidence of improved school experience and outcomes as well as more positive lifelong outcomes," she said.
"There are definite improvements in economic benefits, in cognitive and social-emotional capabilities, mental health, crime rate and adult earnings.
"It is imperative that more effort must be taken up by stakeholders and governments to recognise and support this crucial area of education if it is to have a lasting impact."
She said teachers have been reminded to keep in mind the true meaning of creativity and allow children to do their own work by exploring the materials with their developing skills.