Helping Young Service Children Thrive: Early Years Evidence, Policy and Practice
Commissioned by: The SCiP Alliance & The Naval Children's Charity
Produced by: Centre for Research in Early Childhood (CREC)
Funded by: Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust
Related to: Thriving Through Childhood and Beyond
Topic: Early Years
Type: Research Report
Audience: Early years practitioners | Education leaders | Researchers | Policymakers
Geography: UK-wide
Purpose: To better understand the experiences of young Service children (aged 0–5) and identify how early years providers and policymakers can strengthen support during this critical stage of development.
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Why this research matters
The early years lay the foundations for a child's future learning, wellbeing and development. While many young Service children thrive, experiences such as mobility, parental deployment and family separation can present unique challenges. This research strengthens understanding of those experiences and provides practical recommendations to help early years providers and policymakers better support children from Armed Forces families.
Key insights
- Presents the first UK-wide evidence base focused on Service children aged 0–5.
- Combines existing research with new evidence from parents, practitioners and sector stakeholders across the UK.
- Identifies practical recommendations for early years practice, alongside priorities for policy and system improvement.
- Informs the development of the Thriving Lives Early Years Toolkit, supporting evidence-led practice across the sector.
Who this research is for
- Early years practitioners and leaders
- Local authorities and policymakers
- Researchers
- Organisations supporting Service children and families
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