Early Childhood Development Task Force

A Global Network Supporting Children With Disabilities to Thrive

The Early Childhood Development Task Force (ECDtf) is a dedicated international network advancing inclusion for young children with developmental delays and disabilities. Convened by Childhood Education International, the ECDtf brings together over 2000 practitioners, researchers, technical experts, advocates, families, and community leaders committed to ensuring that every child can thrive in the early years.

Representing voices from more than 115 countries, the ECDtf serves as a global platform for knowledge sharing, dialogue, and collaboration. Members exchange lessons learned, emerging research, and promising practices that inform locally led solutions responsive to diverse cultural and policy contexts.

Hosted as a free and inclusive network, the ECDtf fosters cross-sector collaboration across early childhood development, health, education, and social services. Through shared learning and collective action, the network supports inclusive approaches that align global rights frameworks with practical implementation—strengthening early childhood systems and advancing equity for children with developmental delays and disabilities worldwide.

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Every Child, Every Ability

An estimated 240 million children worldwide have some form of disability — and these children are significantly more likely to face barriers to health, education, and inclusion than their peers.

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An adult and a child with a disability happily touching foreheads.

Our Inclusive Education Pledges

Childhood Education International leads collective action to advance disability-inclusive early childhood development worldwide. In partnership with the Early Childhood Development Action Network (ECDAN), CEI helped shape and advance collaborative commitments launched at the Global Disability Summit in April 2025. Aligned with pledges from governments and global organizations, this work reinforces a shared commitment to disability-inclusive education and to ensuring that children with disabilities can fully enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with all children.

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Inclusion Insights

Inclusion Insights highlights voices and lessons from communities around the world advancing disability inclusion in early childhood. Developed with ECDtf members, these stories explore programs, policies, approaches, and advocacy efforts that support young children with developmental delays and disabilities to thrive.

The Home Advantage

This Inclusion Insight highlights lessons from the Philippines on how home-based programs advance disability inclusion by supporting children’s development and equipping families as partners in early intervention.

We All Have a Place

This feature spotlights lessons from the Democratic Republic of Congo on integrating rehabilitation and prevention into primary public services, strengthening inclusion through local approaches and partnerships.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is ECDtf's History?

The Early Childhood Development Task Force (ECDtf) emerged from the 2012 launch of the Global Partnership on Children with Disabilities (GPcwd), as stakeholders recognized early childhood development as a critical pathway to inclusive development. Following strong interest identified through a 2013 GPcwd survey, the ECD Task Force was formally established and launched by a network of advocates and experts convened by the Partnership for Early Childhood Development and Disability Rights (PECDDR). After eight years with the RISE Institute serving as its pro bono secretariat, Childhood Education International became the host organization of the ECDtf in January 2023.

What Are Some Examples of ECDtf Initiatives?

ECDtf members connect via a listserv and an online community to share information and connect with each other on common research and advocacy interests. A biweekly e-newsletter shares news and events related to early childhood development and children with disabilities. Past ECDtf initiatives have included a mapping project, a Zika task team, a 2024 collaboration with the Zero Project, and creation of resources for Ukrainian families, educators, medical professionals, and others experiencing trauma in the war.

Why Is It Called a Task Force?

A task force brings people together to take action on shared challenges. The ECDtf convenes diverse experts and advocates to address one critical issue: ensuring inclusion in the early years. Through active dialogue, shared learning, and the exchange of resources, research, and best practices, the ECDtf turns collective knowledge into practical momentum for inclusive early childhood development.

Is There an ECDtf Leadership Team?

Yes!

The ECDtf is guided by the Core Leadership Group, which includes specialists and experts from around the world who guide the planning and direction of ECDtf initiatives and ensures the community is kept abreast of trends, practices, and policies in the changing field of inclusive and equitable services to young children with disabilities. To see the current list of leaders, click here.

How Can I Join?

Professionals, researchers, students, families, and individuals are invited to join the ECDtf. Membership is free and includes:

A biweekly email digest of news, research, and information
A member listserv for connecting
An online community sharing space
Regional online networks for collaborating

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How Do I Contact the ECDtf?