The 2 Rs of Early Childhood Development" by Aein Shah explores the foundational role of Relationship and Responsibility in shaping young learners. He emphasizes that relationships—whether with children, adults, or the environment—are both a process and a product, influencing lifelong learning and development. Responsibility, in parenting, teaching, and caregiving, is essential for raising socially responsible, empathetic citizens who contribute positively to society. Through this talk, Aein highlights the delicate balance of nurturing meaningful connections while fostering a sense of duty, ultimately guiding children toward a future of compassion, purpose, and collective well-being. Aien Shah; started his career as a primary school teacher back in mid 90s. He served within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) at various positions including teacher, Teacher Educator, Head of Field Education Office, Manager Academics and School Operations and Director academic affairs. He is currently serving as Head of Education at the Aga Khan Education Service, Pakistan (AKES, P), one of the large non-for-profit school systems functioning in the region since 1905, and is responsible to provide overall academic leadership in areas of school development, curriculum development and management, teacher education, teaching-learning, student assessment, monitoring, evaluation and research. He is recipient of Director’s Award for academic excellence from Notre Dame Institute of Education, Karachi. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx