The Government's consultation on ending child poverty and improving life chances has now closed, and publication of its child poverty strategy is expected later this month. Two of the main reports feeding into the strategy are by Labour MPs, both invited to conduct reviews by Prime Minister David Cameron and both giving high priority to the early years.
Frank Field's report on child poverty (The Foundation Years, published in December), and Graham Allen's report on early intervention (published in January), both call unequivocally for birth to five to be central to Government policy.
So why does such official recognition of the importance of the early years leave me feeling uneasy? Why do both reports set alarm bells ringing? Because on all counts - the analysis, the proposals, the timing - both seem symptomatic of a disturbing trend towards viewing the profound problems of an unequal society as individual failings - 'the wrong type of parenting' in Allen's words - and early years 'programmes' as technical fixes.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here