Early years representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors have debated the Executive's proposed integrated strategy for early years at seminars around Scotland.
Mary Mullligan, deputy minister for communities, told a seminar last week in Aberdeen, 'Experiences in early childhood heavily influence patterns throughout life and there are many policies in place across Executive departments - education, health, communities - which are designed to help children during this crucial early years period.
'The finalised strategy, taking account of the consultation responses and these subsequent discussions, will be published in the early part of next year.'
The strategy proposes a free, part-time pre-school education place for all three- and four-year-old children whose parents want one. It also suggests providing targeted support for families with children aged nought to three, particularly the most vulnerable and deprived.
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