Social inclusion and respect for diversity. A framework for early childhood programs

Hayden, J. and Odena, O. (2007) Social inclusion and respect for diversity. A framework for early childhood programs. In: European Early Childhood Education Research Association (EECERA) Annual Conference, Prague, Czech Republic, 29 Aug – 1 Sep 2007,

Abstract

This paper outlines the current landscape affecting Early Childhood policy and practice. The importance of Social Inclusion (SI) and Respect for Diversity (RfD) is analysed within a global perspective. Several premises regarding SI and RfD are examined, including: diversity and discrimination as global realities affecting all children; the mounting evidence of the development of ethnic identities and prejudice from an early age; the contribution of Early Years interventions to social cohesion; and the negative effect of non-intervention. In the second half of the paper the three program areas of The Bernard van Leer Foundation are outlined, as well as the Foundation's specific Framework for SI and RfD. From the need to gather evidence from successful programs the authors present the first phase of a new Joint Learning Initiative on Children and Ethnic Diversity. The methodology used to draw together knowledge form previous programs is discussed. Ultimately this initiative will lead to building a ‘network of researchers, policy-makers and practitioners able to share good practice and to use research evidence’ to advocate for the development of effective Early Childhood diversity programs (Connolly, 2007).

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Additional Information: This research was funded by The Atlantic Philanthropies and The Bernard van Leer Foundation.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Odena, Professor Oscar
• Authors: Hayden, J., and Odena, O.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Education > Robert Owen Centre
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2007 The Author
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with permission of the author