Supported by research documenting the importance of the early years, global interest and investments in young children are increasing dramatically, with many countries debating how best to marshal resources to foster increased quality and more equitable distribution of services. With the goal of understanding how six high-performing countries advance their services and policies for young children and their families, a comparative analysis was undertaken to discern specifically how countries plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate their efforts. Using a contextually driven, systems perspective, the study both confronted formidable methodological issues and revealed compelling findings that have been used to guide early childhood policy development internationally. This presentation will discuss study intentions, research considerations, and results, leaving time for participants’ discussion.
