Curriculum framework for early childhood care and education in Uruguay: recent actions and old dilemmas

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article describes developments in Uruguay in early childhood provision since 2008 and in particular the organization of the curriculum framework for childcare and education from birth to age six. By means of the creation of an interinstitutional body mainly responsible for promoting high-quality education in early childhood and the professionalization of educators, Uruguay has designed an official curriculum framework for childcare and education from birth to age six, regardless of who provides the service. The aim is to ensure continuity of curriculum orientation when it comes to implementing the arrangement of spaces, modalities and programs. The design of this curriculum framework raises questions about the assumptions that have given substance to it. With this in mind, the paper aims to identify the children who are targeted by this initiative and also reflects on the role of adults responsible for early childhood care and education.