Policy Brief D2.3: Advancing early childhood education and care in Europe

Early childhood education is more than just a preliminary stage of learning—it’s a critical foundation for lifelong success. The D2.3 High Quality ECEC policy recommendations highlight the transformative potential of high-quality early childhood education and care (ECEC) across Europe. 

Why Early Childhood Education Matters 

The first years of a child’s life are pivotal. Quality early education programs do far more than teach basic skills, they: 

• Support social-emotional resilience 

• Develop cognitive abilities 

• Foster positive behavioral patterns 

• Nurture a child’s sense of self and agency 

Investing in early education can prevent long-term societal challenges like underachievement, school dropout, juvenile delinquency, and unemployment. 

The current landscape 

Despite impressive statistic – 92% of children between 3 and primary school age attend early education in the EU – challenges remain. The European Commission has set an ambitious target of 96% participation by 2030, emphasizing that availability is just the first step. Quality is paramount. 

Key elements of high-quality early childhood education 

The SCIREARLY project identifies six crucial components for successful early years education: 

Nurturing and Responsive Environments

Creating learning spaces where children: 

• Feel emotionally safe 

• Are valued 

• Have opportunities for meaningful interactions 

• Can exercise their agency 

Shared Activities Between Schools and Families

Encouraging collaborative approaches that: 

• Promote storytelling 

• Develop active listening skills 

• Create opportunities for mutual support

Rich and Stimulating Learning Spaces

Developing environments that: 

• Offer hands-on, exploratory activities 

• Provide multisensory experiences 

• Align resources with curriculum goals

Building Foundational Learning Skills

Focusing on: 

• Basic skills (literacy, numeracy, science) 

• Transversal skills (creativity, problem-solving) 

• Contextual, play-based learning 

• Intentional use of digital technologies 

Investing in the Education Workforce

Prioritizing: 

• Evidence-based teacher training 

• Supportive work atmospheres 

• Policies that support teacher retention 

• Continuous professional development 

Inclusive participation and decision-making

Ensuring: 

• Democratic school governance 

• Regular family communication 

• Meaningful involvement of all stakeholders 

A holistic approach 

SCIREARLY recognizes that these elements are interconnected. By addressing each dimension, we can create an ecosystem that supports children’s comprehensive development. 

Looking forward 

These recommendations provide a scientific, experience-informed roadmap for transforming early childhood education with a clear goal: Giving every child the best possible start in their educational journey. 

Download the policy brief here.

This article is based on the SCIREARLY project’s policy recommendations, funded by the European Union Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme (Grant No. 101061288).