Slipping through the Policy Cracks: Children with Chronic Illness in Early Childhood Settings

Abstract

An examination of selected Federal and State policies relating to the support of children with additional needs in early childhood services has highlighted a lack of guiding principles for the accommodation and support of children with chronic illness. Children with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable, as they often do not display the characteristics thought to constitute an ‘additional need’ as defined by the policies. Many young children with chronic illnesses, however, experience periods of ill health and are required to undergo treatment regimes which interfere with their social and academic progress to a substantial degree. This paper highlights policy omissions, and offers more comprehensive criteria for use by government, and by staff developing ‘additional needs’ policies in children's services.