Inclusion from the start. Guidelines on inclusive early childhood care and education for Roma children

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. Recognising that quality early childhood experience is an important stepping stone toward inclusive participation in school and society, the Guidelines address the challenges specific 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, staff training and Educational Staff Professional Development, assessment and transition to primary education.