The early childhood education and care (ECEC) for children aged 0-3 in Israel has witnessed substantial reform, leading to the implementation of quality standards within ECEC institutions. Transferring the responsibility for children aged 0-3 to the Ministry of Education, emphasized the focus on children's overall well-being rather than purely custodial care. Our research examined the evolutionary trajectory of ECEC policy in Israel from 1948 to 2021. The analysis draws upon official governmental documents, protocols, and legislation, utilizing a process tracing methodology to identify and trace the key policy developments over time.
The findings reveal that the progression of ECEC policy in Israel has been driven by a diverse range of stakeholders, including voluntary women's organizations, practitioners, academics, citizen activists, and politicians. Notably, the significant reforms observed in the past decade have emerged from a gradual transition, shifting the focus from meeting the needs of working mothers to prioritizing the holistic developmental needs of children. Remarkably, the organizational structure that has emerged in Israel's ECEC system exhibits a unique combination of simultaneous fragmentation and integration, setting it apart from international practices.
Our study provides a comprehensive description and analysis of the legislative processes and reforms undertaken in Israel to promote quality in the care and education of children aged 0-3. Similar trends have been documented globally. Thus, the Israeli processes will be examined within the broader international context. By shedding light on the Israeli experience, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of worldwide ECEC policy development and reform efforts.

Authors:
Yaara Shilo, Bar Ilan University, Israel
Iris BenDavid-Hadar, Bar-Ilan University, Israel

About the Presenter(s)
Doctoral student school of education in Bar Ilan Un. She is a social activist and educator. She is an expert in early childhood education at Efrata Academic College. Initiated an academic program for managers of day care centers in the pre-school

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