Shifting the paradigm of teaching migrant and refugee children: inclusive welcome practices for ECEC
Shifting the paradigm of teaching migrant and refugee children: inclusive welcome practices for ECEC
StatusVoR
Alternative title
Authors
Popyk, Anzhela
Gaywood, Donna
Tobin, Alison
Koutoulas, Jennifer
Gabi, Josephine
Monograph
Monograph (alternative title)
Date
2025-07-22
Publisher
Journal title
Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education
Issue
3
Volume
46
Pages
Pages
547-566
ISSN
1090-1027
ISSN of series
Access date
2025-07-22
Abstract PL
Abstract EN
In this article, we seek to reconceptualize early childhood education and care (ECEC) for migrant and refugee children through the lens of teachers’ positionality, and funds of knowledge. Our study adopts an ethical, power-conscious approach that integrates the diverse backgrounds of children within pedagogical practices. It further incorporates play-based, trauma-informed, child-centered, and community-cohesive approaches as a foundation for inclusive teaching practices in ECEC. Drawing on Rayner’s (2017) Natural Inclusion theory, as introduced by Gaywood (2023) in refugee studies, we argue that the natural social inclusion of migrant and refugee children is essential for broader social evolution and change. This theoretical framework is complemented by the concept of “Welcome,” an introductory theme of our Educational Toolkit, which was developed and trialed for ECEC teachers and practitioners across five countries: England, Australia, Greece, Turkey, and Poland. The Toolkit’s evaluation assessed how welcoming practices facilitate natural inclusion and foster classroom interaction. This paradigm shift in the education of migrant and refugee children aims to enhance current models of teacher professional development by promoting pedagogical strategies that address the needs of diverse child populations. Our findings contribute to reshaping teacher’s practices and advancing a more inclusive and equitable approach to early childhood education.
Abstract other
Keywords PL
Keywords EN
refugee
play-based
agency
migrant children
inclusive education
trauma-informed
play-based
agency
migrant children
inclusive education
trauma-informed
Keywords other
ECEC
Exhibition title
Place of exhibition (institution)
Exhibition curator
Type
License type
Funder
Time range from
Time range to
Contact person name
Related publication
Related publication
Grant/project name
Collections
Views
15Acquisition Date18.10.2025
Downloads
3Acquisition Date18.10.2025
Altmetrics©
Dimensions
Google Scholar
