To consider the current political and social climate and economic climate and the impact this has had on the policies relevant to your practice

Aim

To reflect upon how the current political, social and economic climate is impacting upon ECEC.

Evidence and Reflection

Consider the current political, social and economic climate. What impact has this had on your setting? The families in your setting? Can you identify how practitioner practice is being shaped in the current climate?

Extension

If possible discuss this with a colleague or fellow student. Consider what, if anything, can or should be done to question current policies and/or pressures.

Consider the current political and social climate and the impact this has had on the policies relevant to your practice. Can you identify how practitioner practice is being shaped by such policy? Can you see the benefits of such policy? Can you also identify any potential issues or problems? Think particularly about children as learners and about our desire to support them as unique, curious independent learners.

If possible discuss this with a colleague or fellow student.

More in this chapter

• To devise innovative approaches to tapping the ‘funds of knowledge’
• To find out more about the culture of the children in your care outside of the setting
• To review and explore the significance of ideology, culture, opportunity and accountability
• To consider the meaning and significance of ‘agency’, both for practitioners and for learners
• The impact of media and technology on the lives of babies and young children