June 2024 – This article published in Frontiers in Public Health explores a global ECD framework for children with disabilities, based on a review of national ECD programs from different world regions and relevant global ECD reports published since 2015. Available evidence recommends a twin-track approach, strong legislative support, early intervention guidelines, family involvement, coordinating agencies, performance indicators, workforce recruitment and training, and explicit funding mechanisms. It emphasizes parental rights and liberty to choose appropriate support pathways for their children.
The authors conclude by advocating for a global disability-focused ECD strategy that incorporates these key features under a dedicated global leadership if the SDGs vision and commitment for the world’s children with disabilities are to be realized.