Factors Contributing to Successful Early Childhood Education Systems
Key takeaway: Successful early childhood education systems prioritize government investment and policy, quality teachers and staff, inclusive and diverse programs, research-based curriculum and methodologies, shared values and philosophies, emphasis on play-based learning, collaboration between parents, teachers, and community, and ongoing professional development for educators. Additionally, successful systems adapt best practices to local contexts, prioritize equity and inclusion in education, and focus on closing the gap in access and quality.
Government Investment and Policy
Quality Teachers and Staff
Inclusive and Diverse Programs
Research-Based Curriculum and Methodologies
Evaluating the Top Early Childhood Education Systems
Scandinavian Countries: Finland and Sweden
Asia: Singapore and South Korea
North America: Canada and the United States
Other Notable Countries: Reggio Emilia, Italy; High Scope, United States
Lessons from the Best Early Childhood Education Systems
Shared Values and Philosophies
Emphasis on Play-Based Learning
Collaboration Between Parents, Teachers, and Community
Ongoing Professional Development for Educators
Future Directions for Global Early Childhood Education