Principles and Values

All children are strong, competent and visible in their communities.
All children are physically and emotionaly healthy, eager and able to learn and respect those that are different.

Early Childhood in its own right; as well as being the foundation for later life.
Play as the primary vehicle to promote the development of young children.
A culture of listening to children.
Parents / carers as first educators.
Inclusion through diversity and respect for others.
Support, education and development opportunities for families.
Quality and innovation in early years care and education.
The professionalism and commitment of all staff and volunteers working with young children.

Play based learning environments for all young children.
Evidence based innovative services for children, families and communities.
Opportunities for all children to reach their full potential.
Partnerships with parents / carers and other agencies.
A co-ordinated, integrated and holistic approach to young children's learning and development.
Training, professional development opportunities and appropriate remuneration for all adults working with young children.
High quality services to children, member groups, parents, staff, volunteers and funders.
The central role of the adult in early childhood settings.
Community Development approaches to Early Childhood Development.
Stronger government investment and recognition of the importance of early years.

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and is committed to working towards the implementation of the Convention in all our work and collaborating with others at local, national and international levels to ensure the full implementation of the Convention.

The Shared Future Policy Agenda and will work towards implementation of the policy throughout the Early Years network.