The Function of Early Childhood Education and Care for Children with Medical Care Needs: An Investigative Fieldwork Study of Licensed Childcare Centers

Abstract

Previous research has used case study methods to accumulate knowledge about children with medical care needs. Research from the early childhood education and care (ECEC) perspective remains in its infancy in this field. This study sought to examine the function of ECEC for children with medical care needs. Activities of childcare centers providing care for children with medical needs was observed and childcare workers were interviewed. Based on this research, six ECEC functions of childcare centers became apparent: 1) facilitating the experience of various emotions, 2) supporting peer relationships, 3) promotion of trial and error, 4) development of self-assertion and self-restraint skills, 5) providing interactions with various staff, and 6) encouraging interactions with various children. As a method of promoting the identified ECEC functions for children with medical care needs, the individualized care point of view was examined.