Responding to diversity: statements and practices in two early childhood education contexts

Abstract

This article draws on data from research on how early childhood centres in Aotearoa New Zealand are responding to diversity. The historical and contemporary contexts which are shaping possible responses to diversity are discussed. Two case studies of a parent-led and a teacher-led centre are presented. It is argued that it is important to be more specific both about the contexts in which a discussion of diversity occurs and what in particular is meant by diversity. The need to consider the constitutive effects of teachers' and parents' biographies within these contexts is also discussed.