This review of early childhood education and care (ECEC) in twenty OECD countries describes the social, economic, conceptual and research factors that influence early childhood policy. These include increasing women’s labour market participation; reconciling work and family responsibilities on a more equitable basis for women; confronting the demographic challenges faced by OECD countries; and in particular, addressing issues of access, quality, diversity, child poverty and educational disadvantage. Starting Strong II outlines the progress made by the participating countries in responding to the key aspects of successful ECEC policy outlined in the previous volume, Starting Strong (OECD, 2001). It offers many examples of new policy initiatives adopted in the ECEC field. In their conclusion, the authors identify ten policy areas for further critical attention from governments. The book also presents country profiles, which give an overview of ECEC systems in all 20 participating countries.
Table of contents:
Executive Summary Chapter 1. Why Countries Invest in Early Childhood Education and Care Chapter 2. A Systemic and Integrated Approach to Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Policy. Chapter 3. A Strong and Equal Partnership with the Education System Chapter 4. A Universal Approach to Access, with Particular Attention to Children in Need of Special Support. Chapter 5. Substantial Public Investment in Services and the Infrastructure. Chapter 6. A Participatory Approach to Quality Improvement and Assurance. Chapter 7. Appropriate Training and Working Conditions for Early Childhood Education and Care Staff Chapter 8. Systematic Attention to Data Collection and Monitoring Chapter 9. A Stable Framework and Long-Term Agenda for Research and Evaluation Chapter 10. Concluding Policy Observations Annex A. Terminology Used in the Report Annex B. The Scope and Methodology of the ECEC Review Annex C. Data for Figures. Annex D. A Summary of International Evidence in Favour of Public Investment in ECEC Annex E. Country Profiles: An Overview of ECEC Systems in the Participating Countries Annex F. Members of Review Teams.
