Assessment of Contextual Dimensions in Early Childhood Education

This research project focuses on the curricula developed in a day care centre and in a kindergarten attended by children under institutional care. The aim of this study has been to analyse the existing contextual dimensions, namely at the level of the educational offer, group climate, room for initiative, organisation and the adult style (in three dimensions: stimulation, autonomy and sensitivity), keeping in mind the perspective of the children involved in the study. Based on the assessment of their competences, needs and interests, several initiatives and courses of action were planed and implemented in order to meet the identified needs and the established objectives. The data indicate the need for investment in the dimensions of the adult style, namely, at the level of sensitivity, stimulation and promotion of the children's autonomy, especially in what concerns the day care context.