International

Learning with Other Countries: International Models of Early Education and Care Support from the Start: Lessons from International Early Years Policy

• Learning with Other Countries: International Models of Early Education and Care, published by The Daycare Trust, July 2005. This report brings together papers written by experts from six countries, some of whom participated in the Daycare Trust's Annual Conference in November 2004. The publication aims at sharing and co-constructing knowledge on early education and care by examining the strengths and weaknesses of International models of children's services. According to the report those countries with universal access to high quality, affordable childcare spend between 1 and 2 per cent of GDP on services and cap parental costs at one third of actual costs. Britain spends 0.54 percent of GDP on early education and care, with parents paying around 75 per cent of actual costs. To order, go to www.daycaretrust.org.uk
  
  
• Support from the Start: Lessons from International Early Years Policy by Jenny North, published by The Maternity Alliance, July 2005. This report presents new evidence from eight countries (Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, and the US) about what works in supporting pregnant women, new parents, and babies in the first year of life. The report makes recommendations based on the evidence, but tailored to the UK. The findings look in particular at improving birth outcomes, increasing breastfeeding rates and fostering healthy cognitive and emotional development. The recommendations cover suggestions about improving antenatal support, implementing home visiting, facilitating peer support, improving childcare and increasing financial support. To order copies or download, see www.maternityalliance.org.uk
  
  
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