Initial training of Portuguese ECEC professionals to work with children aged 0-3: current challenges and needs

Research examining and characterizing the initial training programs currently offered to early childhood educators is scarce. This study aims to a) characterize current offers of initial training for qualified educators, with a focus on the under 3s in Portugal and b) identify the main constraints and opportunities from the perspective of lecturers involved in initial training. A document analysis of 67 initial training programs and a series of focus group discussions (n = 23) were conducted. Findings showed that most programs devote limited time to 0–3 years. Participants identified several constraints and proposed adjustments that can be useful for improvement.