2026 International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute

This two-part session introduces the F-words for Child Development – family, fun, friends, functioning, fitness and future – within the evolving landscape of early childhood inclusion and developmental practice. Co-presented by researchers, a parent partner, and a clinical partner, it integrates research evidence, lived experience, and clinical insight. Participants will explore key concepts, the field’s shift toward functioning and participation, and practical tools to support implementation. Real-world examples will highlight the ways in which the F-words can be used across settings. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable ideas for applying the F-words in practice and everyday life, with time for discussion and questions.

This two-part session introduces the F-words for Child Development – family, fun, friends, functioning, fitness and future – within the evolving landscape of early childhood inclusion and developmental practice. Co-presented by researchers, a parent partner, and a clinical partner, it integrates research evidence, lived experience, and clinical insight. Participants will explore key concepts, the field’s shift toward functioning and participation, and practical tools to support implementation. Real-world examples will highlight the ways in which the F-words can be used across settings. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable ideas for applying the F-words in practice and everyday life, with time for discussion and questions.

What does early childhood inclusion look like when there is no mandate, no strong system-level support, and limited resources? Based on experience in the Malaysian context, this session explores classroom realities, the enabling factors and entry points that make inclusion achievable in low-resourced settings. The session also considers who and what holds inclusion together in practice: families and informal community partnerships. Drawing on reflections from working with community partners and teachers, the session highlights how language, culture, and local adaptation shape practice, and reflects on the tensions between deficit-based language and rights-based approaches to inclusion.