Early childhood education (Educación Inicial) in Argentina is a crucial stage in the national education system, covering children from 45 days old to five years. It is divided into two main levels: Maternal (45 days to 2 years) and Preschool (3 to 5 years). The government prioritizes universal access to preschool education, making it mandatory for children aged 4 and 5.

The Argentine Ministry of Education (Ministerio de Educación) oversees early education policies, emphasizing holistic child development, social inclusion, and equal learning opportunities. The curriculum focuses on play-based learning, emotional and cognitive development, and early literacy and numeracy skills. Schools also integrate cultural, artistic, and physical activities to enhance children’s creativity and social skills.

A key feature of Argentina’s early education system is its public-private structure, where both government-funded and private institutions operate. The state provides financial aid and teacher training to ensure quality standards. Additionally, there is growing support for digital literacy and inclusive education for children with disabilities.