Care in Early Learning and Childcare Transitions

There has been a global trend in the expansion of Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) provision meaning more children younger ages accessing ELC experiencing associated transitions than was previously case. This occurred within an increasingly Neoliberal context, with greater focus on measurable educational outcomes, which are often placed as juxta positioned to care, may prove challenging define quantify. These challenges compounded when considering taken for granted nature care ELC, rendering it unspoken therefore at risk being undermined or deemed dispensable aspect multifaceted role. Given above essential that concept explicitly critically explored relation many multiple multidimensional occur ELC. paper considers criticality part by reviewing literature from 2010-present day. Findings suggested role shifted over time, leading ambiguities sometimes tensions expectations between stakeholders. turn influenced how is defined, enacted valued overwhelming suggesting viewed less highly education, reasons such difficulties quantifying quality perception innate rather skilful. Transition practices were considered discussed definitions led identification during transitions.