Research shows: good foundation for young children in Utrechts childcare and education

Early and preschool education (VVE) is intended for young children aged 2.5 to 6 years who may need extra support in their language and social development. At daycare locations and in the lower grades of primary school, they receive additional guidance to develop and strengthen their vocabulary, motor skills, and social skills. This helps them to start primary school with a solid foundation and reduces the risk of educational disadvantages later in their school career. 

The municipality of Utrecht, school boards, and childcare organizations have been strongly focusing on the quality of early and preschool education for years, aiming to create equal opportunities for all young children. Alderman Eelco Eerenberg (Education and Public Health): “And that is visible. By investing early in the development of young children, we not only ensure better chances in education but also prevent future costs in (youth) care. We want all children in Utrecht to start their school time with a fair chance.” 

The quality measurement shows that young children within the VVE in Utrecht usually grow up in a safe and positive environment. There is a lot of personal attention, and the socio-emotional development is often well supported. 

Besides the positive results, there are also opportunities to further improve quality. This includes strengthening the equitable collaboration with parents and developing an inclusive play-learning environment where all Utrecht children feel seen and heard, and where multilingualism is recognized as a strength. Increasing the shared responsibility of childcare and education is also a point of attention for lifelong learning for professionals and the further shaping of smooth transitions between childcare and education. 

With the focus from the research, the municipality is working with other organizations to create a strong and future-oriented foundation for all Utrecht children. The insights will be used to further improve early and preschool education.

The research can be read here.