Complex public health programmes may suffer from 'teething problems' during their implementation in practice, especially when programmes are developed top-down without the participation of end-users and service providers. Trying out and optimising a new concept in practice with stakeholder's participation may enhance the programme's chance of…

Against a background of increasing inequality and its impact at various levels on childhood and family life, of the growing societal significance and uptake of extra-familial childcare provision, and of social policy goals emphasising participation and education for all, the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector in Germany is facing new…

In contrast to the importance of the occupational activities of pedagogues discussed in pertinent theoretical studies, there is a lack of empirical findings concerning the texture of the occupational activities of pedagogues working in early childhood education and care (ECEC) settings. The present study addresses these issues by examining 127…

This paper, presented in three parts, examines the role of the early childhood professional in Europe. Part 1 of the paper examines how various European countries broadly conceptualize the early childhood professional role. Four broad categories are described: (1) early childhood pedagogue; (2) preschool specialist; (3) teacher; and (4) social…

Explores role of early-childhood practitioners against background of shifts in social context and sociopolitical climate of early-childhood education and care in Germany. Maintains that practitioners are links in the process of repositioning early-childhood centers in quality debate. Discusses need for newly defined role combining family-centered…