Early Childhood Disability Inclusion Globally: ECDtf Dialogue Series

In recent decades, there has been important global progress in advancing early childhood disability inclusion and early intervention. However, significant challenges persist, and recent setbacks – including funding reductions and the spread of misinformation about disabilities – have raised serious concerns about addressing ongoing gaps and maintaining the progress that has been made.

To provide a platform for discussion among leaders, practitioners, technical experts, advocates, researchers, and others concerned with early childhood disability inclusion, the Early Childhood Development Task Force (ECDtf) has hosted a series of dialogues this year.

The ECDtf is an inclusive global network engaging in knowledge-sharing and dialogue toward locally led solutions for a world where young children with developmental delays and disabilities can thrive. Childhood Education International is the host organization for the ECDtf.

Discussion & Pledges

To counter regression on research, policies, and services that support young children with developmental delays and disabilities, the network organized a dialogue series to build on conversations members were having through the listserv about how to protect and build upon progress for inclusion globally and within local contexts. 

The first event in the series was held in February with a focus on concerns about U.S. funding reductions, increased politicization, disinformation, and threat to disability inclusion. A second event in March broadened the discussion to focus on additional challenges and opportunities related to disability inclusion.

As a result of and informed by these dialogues, CE International partnered with the Early Childhood Development Action Network (ECDAN) to submit a joint commitment to inclusive education as part of the Global Disability Summit in April.

Our collaborative commitment recognizes disability-inclusive education as a fundamental right and that children with disabilities are entitled to the full enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with other children. It also outlines a variety of ways the organizations will contribute toward building a more inclusive future for young children with disabilities.

Where Are We Now?

Recently, the ECDtf gathered for a third online event in the dialogue series. This event focused on the question, “Where Are We Now with Early Childhood Disability Inclusion Globally?”

The event featured a panel of experienced professionals in the fields of pediatrics, NGOs, and other institutions in Colombia, the United States, Ethiopia, South Africa, and India. Following the panel discussion, other members joined the conversation to share their perspectives and build on the discussion.

During this event, ECDtf members expressed a commitment to continue and grow their knowledge- and resource-sharing to build collective information and action. Challenges that members noted related to early childhood disability inclusion included:

• Stigma, fear, and lack of knowledge leading to children with disabilities being kept home from school
• Exclusion of children with disabilities, intentionally or through poor infrastructure and support systems
• A lack of trained caregivers and professionals
• Lack of access to assistive technology
• Gaps between policy commitments and on-the-ground practice
• Lack of funding globally and at the country and community levels
• Disconnects between research, advocacy, and practice
• Fragmentation and silos between sectors (education, health, social services, transportation)
• A lack of attention to the earliest years (0-3)

The dialogue also presented several possible areas where improvements could be made and shifts could help address ongoing challenges, including:

• Integrated, multisectoral responses
• Knowledge- and resource-sharing with parents and parent-led advocacy
• Outreach to and direct engagement with policymakers
• Connections between researchers and practitioners

The conversation underscored that children with disabilities face persistent barriers and that fragmentation across sectors and weak policy implementation—especially in rural areas—compound the problems, while limited attention to and funding support for the needs of young children leaves a critical gap.

Panelists emphasized that inclusion is a social justice issue and not charity. They stressed the need for coordinated global action, collective capacity-building, and dedicated investment to turn dialogue into tangible progress.

Next Steps

The ECDtf Dialogues series will continue with another online event later this year. Learn more about the ECDtf and join here.