Actress Ma Yili (left). [Photo/Official Weibo of UNICEF]

In the center, one early stimulation volunteer worker works with parents, grandparents or carers, as well as the children. A parenting portal is available for parents to access information on all aspects of child development up to the age of six; an app is also available.

"The parents and grandparents I met were so actively engaged in the interaction with the children. I can tell there has been a huge change in the perception of ECD among local people," said Ma. "I never expected the project could reach such a remote and poor area."

"A child's first few years are an unprecedented opportunity to ensure the establishment of good development practices and programs that provide the foundation for life-long thriving," said Rana Flowers, UNICEF Representative to China. "It requires a mix of integrated interventions and multi-sectoral involvement to ensure every child has access to good healthcare and nutrition, clean water, sanitation and hygiene, early stimulation and protection from violence, abuse and neglect."