Paradigm Shifts and New Directions in Research on Early Childhood Development Programs in Low-and Middle-Income Countries

This chapter identifies emerging paradigm shifts for research that can address the next generation of practice and policy questions in early childhood development (ECD) in lowand middle-income (LAMI) countries. We discuss new developments in approaches to considering equity; quality and its improvement; the multisectoral nature of ECD programs and policies; and the development of research capacity. In each section, we identify underlying tensions and challenges in the global ECD context, paying particular attention to issues of inequity, social exclusion, and cultural diversity, and we highlight innovative directions and initiatives. We conclude that the promise of expanding both knowledge bases and programs and policies in ECD across LAMI countries requires new approaches to examining patterns of inclusion, exclusion, and cultural specificity, as well as partnerships among researchers, practitioners, caregivers, community members, and policymakers.