Early Years

A collection of resources on the topic of early years.

A pathway of care for vulnerable families (0-3): guidance

Guidance that draws on key Scottish Government publications launched between 2008 and 2011 to reinforce key messages around reducing inequalities, building capacity in individuals, families and communities and taking a holistic approach to meeting the needs of all children.

The overall aim is to ensure that vulnerable children (from conception to age 3) and families in all parts of Scotland receive support that is equitable, proportionate, effective and timely.

Joining the dots: a better start for Scotland's children

This report is about children’s early years - why they matter and how they can be improved. It is also about the kind of Scotland people are living in and the kind of society they want it to be - what matters to people as human beings and what they can do to support each other, as individuals, as well as through our public services and professionals.

It is also about government, politics, public policy and public services, and how, with increasing pressures on the public purse people can try and do the right things and do them well.

Extended flexible entitlement for three- and four year olds : pathfinder evaluation

Report of an evaluation of the extended flexible entitlement pathfinder which was introduced by the UK Government to maximise developmental benefits for children by providing extended access to free early years provision and to diminish childcare-related obstacles to employment faced by parents by providing more flexible delivery of free childcare provision across the private, voluntary and independent sectors.

Improving the well-being of disabled children (up to age 8) and their families through increasing the quality and range of early years interventions: progress map summary

This progress map summary provides key research findings from the C4EO knowledge review on the effectiveness of early years interventions for disabled children. A number of 'challenge questions' for strategic leaders to use in assessing, delivering and monitoring the effectiveness of early years interventions for disabled children are also provided.