Implementation of the National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centers by Local Administrative Organization-affiliated Child Development Centers in Suphan Buri Province

Background and Aims: The objectives of this research were to study and compare the levels of personnel’s opinions regarding the implementation of the National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centers by local administrative organization-affiliated child development centers in Suphan Buri Province, classified by position, educational background, and work experience. Additionally, the research aimed to explore guidelines for implementing the National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centers in these centers. Methodology: The sample group consisted of 304 personnel from child development centers. The research instruments included a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire, which had an Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) ranging from 0.80 to 1.00 and a reliability coefficient of 0.80, as well as a structured interview form. The statistical methods used for data analysis were frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test, and F-test (ANOVA). Results: Research findings revealed that: 1. The overall implementation of the National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centers by local administrative organization-affiliated child development centers in Suphan Buri Province was rated at a high level. 2. The implementation, when classified by position and work experience, showed a statistically significant difference at the .05 level. However, educational background did not show any significant difference, either overall or in specific aspects. 3. Guidelines for implementing the National Standards indicated that in terms of management, the environment should be safe and promote family and community involvement. In terms of care and learning processes, a strong relationship between children and adults should be encouraged, along with learning through observation, experimentation, questioning, and the development of creativity. Regarding early childhood development, children should be nurtured to develop discipline, self-control, adaptability, logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and age-appropriate communication abilities. Conclusion: The implementation of the National Standards for Early Childhood Development Centers focuses on enhancing the quality of care and age-appropriate learning for young children. This is achieved by providing qualified personnel, ensuring a safe environment, and organizing activities that promote holistic development. In addition, continuous monitoring and evaluation are conducted by established criteria to support ongoing improvement.