January 22, 2025 – This working paper published by the World Bank examines the effect of ECD programs on the psychosocial and socioemotional well-being of forcibly displaced caregivers and children between the ages of 0 and 8 years through a systematic literature review and key informant interviews. Findings indicate the crucial links between parents’ mental well-being and children’s development. Despite challenges, ECD interventions show promising outcomes and fill important gaps to build developmental foundations and school readiness. ECD interventions must be well designed, target both the caregivers and the child, and be culturally sensitive, child-friendly, and trauma-informed. The paper provides recommendations that focus on sustaining impact, leveraging technology, securing sustainable funding, and advocating for sustained investments in the early years in fragile and conflict settings.