Navigating Equity in Early Learning: Identifying Challenges and Barriers to Early Learning and Childcare for Black Children and Families
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Authors
Ajayi, Mary
Date
2024-12-12
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Early learning and childcare , Black children , Black families , North America , Kingston, Ontario , London, Ontario , Early childhood education , Systemic barriers , Systems navigation
Alternative Title
Abstract
A conducive early learning and childcare (ELCC) environment plays an integral role in the social, emotional, behavioural, and physical development of children. Access to these services is imperative to promote lifelong wellbeing and establish social equity. However, these services are not designed to serve all children. Especially, Black and other racialized children, who face significant disparities both within and outside of these spaces, leading to adverse life outcomes. As receiving adequate education is a social determinant of health, it is imperative that Black and other racialized children can access inclusive ELCC programs and services. Therefore, to optimally support and promote Black children’s health and wellbeing and to address the anti-Black racial gaps in opportunity and achievement, inclusive, comprehensive, and well-coordinated systems of care that reflect the multiple contexts in which Black children are embedded must be provided. To address the objectives of this research, this thesis was conducted in two stages and utilizes mixed methods to investigate the experiences of Black children and their families when accessing ELCC. Stage One was a systematic review of ELCC to determine the common barriers and facilitators that influence access to ELCC. Stage Two was semi-structured interviews (n=25) with Black parents in Kingston and London, Ontario to investigate their attitudes, beliefs, and perspectives on ELCC in their respective cities. Results from this thesis indicate that Black children and their families face unique challenges that decrease their probability of receiving equitable and culturally responsive ELCC. These challenges are typically influenced by multiple intersecting factors that significantly impact their ability to navigate the ELCC system as well as the treatment they receive within the system. Findings from this research can be used to address the barriers faced by Black children and their families. Ultimately, this research can be used to inform policies, programs, and practices that can be established to better serve Black and other racialized children and families and create inclusive and equitable ELCC programs and services.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution 4.0 International
ProQuest PhD and Master's Theses International Dissemination Agreement
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution 4.0 International