The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is creating transformational change in society through the integration of digital technologies and other emerging technologies. 4IR continues to fundamentally change the way people live, work and interact with each other and the world around them. The 4IR is progressing at an unprecedented speed, giving rise to disruptive innovations across all societal domains, including the field of education. This rapid advancement emphasises the importance of preparing children with the fundamental skills needed for the ever-changing requirements of the new world of work. Early Childhood Development (ECD) plays a crucial role in providing children with abilities, such as digital literacy, creativity, critical thinking and self-leadership, all of which are increasingly critical for future success. The skills that are essential for success in the future workplace are changing, requiring individuals to develop a set of skills during their early development stage. This study investigates the factors influencing ECD in terms of 4IR. By using a quantitative research design, data were gathered from educators, caregivers and parents throughout South Africa. 110 participants took part in the study. The results indicate that digital literacy, parental involvement and child-centred learning approaches significantly influence ECD outcomes. Additionally, interpersonal skills, creativity and innovation and self-leadership were identified as crucial components for preparing children for the new work environment. Despite these positive findings, the study highlights ongoing challenges, including unequal access to quality ECD resources and gaps in educator training, which hinder the potential for fair development across various socio-economic contexts.