Early childcare policy in Malta : a preliminary consultative study

Abstract

This paper considers childcare and early childhood education policy for Malta for children under five. It is based upon a qualitative approach, where a total of 19 interviewees, amongst whom, policy-makers, employers and educators, were consulted by means of face-to-face, in-depth interviews. The aim of the research was to identify those elements considered by the participants as essential to the development of a suitable model of early childcare for Malta. In Malta, the shortage of statutory childcare services has led to a reliance on the private sector. Such a service is not within everyone's reach. Parents may have to resort to alternative services to fully cover their childcare needs. In terms of quality, this may often be an inadequate solution. In addition, it is not clear what one should expect from formal childcare services since childcare is not regulated. The study attempted to bring together two agendas into one coherent approach by seeking the input of key informants on what children stand to gain in terms of developmental growth and school readiness prior to compulsory education and on whether childcare can support parents, especially mothers, as one important means of removing barriers to work, further their education or progress with employment careers. This study also considers possible harm that may be experienced by children in inadequate childcare arrangements. All participants expressed deep concern about non-regulated childcare settings and the risk that such services involve poor quality care and education and facilitate abuse. Respondents believed that education and care ought not to be separated. It was suggested that parents should contribute to the service according to their income. However, the crucial role of public financing to ensure accessibility to quality services was emphasised especially to families with modest or poor financial means. It is suggested that if Government's policy is to ensure affordable quality childcare for children aged 0 to 5 then such a policy should be backed by means of a national childcare policy. The need for childcare services is no longer felt only by disadvantaged families. Higher living standards, different work patterns and other exigencies have brought about a radical change on lifestyle. Hence, there is a need for further commitment to more adequate policies to support parents coming from various socio-economic classes and backgrounds. Social Policy needs to address the requirements of the child while parents are employed and make work and family more compatible with each other. It is argued that the challenges facing Maltese society in developing this neglected sector of education and social policy provide an excellent opportunity to better support children and families in times when they need most support.