Early years educational settings make a vital contribution to the health and well-being of young refugee children and their families. Although refugee children arrive with diverse backgrounds and needs, early years settings help them to develop so they can meet their full educational, social and physical potential. By working closely with parents and communities, early years settings will also help young refugee children to integrate into their local communities.
Through a commitment to meeting the needs of all children early years settings can ensure that they are inclusive and that all groups of children develop and make progress, including those who are refugees.
By promoting healthy development early years settings contribute to the health of refugee children and ensure they access the services and support they need.
By supporting language and learning, early years settings can ensure that young refugee children acquire skills in English, and make the best possible progress in their learning.
Having play opportunities, making friends and enjoying activities all support young refugee children’s positive coping and resilience after their difficult experiences. Early years settings promote emotional well-being through play, safe and enjoyable activities and pastoral care.
By encouraging refugee parents to play an active part in the education of their children, early years settings will benefit from their talents and skills. Parental involvement and family learning initiatives can also provide real opportunities for refugee parents to acquire important skills that will assist their own integration as well as that of their children.
