Inclusion in early childhood education and care (ECEC)

Gaywood, Donna ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4169-3638 (2026) Inclusion in early childhood education and care (ECEC). In: Inclusive Education: Perspectives on Pedagogy, Policy and Practice 2nd ed. Routledge Education Studies . Routledge. ISBN 9781032692357

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Abstract

This chapter is written at a time when it seems that more and more children are presenting with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in early childhood education and care (ECEC). Although the chapter is based within the United Kingdom context, several world events have highlighted the need for more robust inclusive practices, so that all young children are able to fully access early education. A definition of inclusion within an early childhood context is set out. Current legalisation and policies which frame inclusive practice in early education, are examined. There is a discussion about how inclusion can be reframed to promote a strength-based approach, in which the medical and social model of disability is explained. Notions of normality are considered. The personal and pedagogical responses of early educators to children who may need reasonable adjustments, are also discussed. Readers are encouraged to complete the research and reflective tasks, which punctuate the chapter, to enhance their practice and learning.

Item Type:	Book Section
Subjects:	L Education > L Education (General)
Divisions:	Schools and Research Institutes > School of Education, Health and Sciences
Depositing User:	Charlotte Crutchlow
Date Deposited:	30 Mar 2026 08:07
Last Modified:	31 Mar 2026 12:15
URI:	https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/15900

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