Resources

Inclusion from the start: guidelines on inclusive early childhood care and education for Roma children (Guidelines hereafter) is a joint contribution by the Council of Europe and UNESCO to improving access to quality early childhood services for Roma children. They are a concrete follow-up to the recommendations arising from an expert meeting, organised by the two organisations in 2007.1 Recognising that quality early childhood experience is an important stepping stone toward inclusive participation in school and society, the Guidelines address the challenges specifc to Roma children in the early years and transition to primary education. They provide guidance on key themes, such as the conceptualisation of early childhood care and education (ECCE) services, agenda-setting, stakeholders’ responsibilities, curricular and pedagogical approaches, staf training and professional development, assessment and transition to primary education. The Guidelines primarily address formal ECCE services – such as kindergartens and preschools – which typically cater for children from ages 3-6 years. The reason for this focus is that providing care and education experience prior to primary school entry is crucial for supporting Roma children’s school readiness and for facilitating an equal start in their frst year. This being said, the Guidelines also acknowledge the critical importance of the years pre-natal to age 3, and consider health and nutrition interventions and non-formal ECCE programmes (e.g. community-based childcare, parenting education) as essential services in deprived neighbourhoods and settlements.