A Scoping Review on Inclusion of Immigrant Children and Families in Nordic Early Childhood Education

Abstract

Inclusive practices in educational contexts are important elements of early childhood education and care. Such practices promote equity and social justice in society. However, inclusion can be viewed and implemented from multiple perspectives. In this chapter, we review key research in a scoping review of inclusive education of immigrant children and families in Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. We undertake a review of peer-reviewed articles to explore themes presented around immigrant children and families. We engage in a review of literature from 2018 to 2022 to ensure consistent and reliable information collected from a robust process (n=15). Based on the key themes identified (language, parental partnerships, ethnic groups, and challenges/dilemmas), we also discuss future directions for inclusive education in the Nordic region for early childhood education and early childhood education teacher education. We also suggest future directions in research to support the goals of Nordic early childhood education.