Wellbeing as central to including all children in the early years

Wellbeing has been considered from multiple perspectives for centuries. Spanning the diverse domains of philosophy, history, psychology, health and literature, wellbeing has been brought to the forefront of education in recent years. While the search for an agreed definition of wellbeing continues, research consistently highlights the stronglink between providing effectively for children's wellbeing and including all children in the early years. When children are supported in developing a strong sense of personal well-being and belonging, their learning and development is enhanced. A lens has been cast upon the importance of children's wellbeing in the context of education both nation ally and internationally. Recent policy level developments in Ireland have articulated a commitment to supporting children's wellbeing in the early years, both at preschool and primary school levels. In this chapter, the concept of wellbeingis explored in the context of the inclusion of all children. Practical strategies are suggested, which can promote children's wellbeing, while simultaneously enhancing the inclusive culture in children's early learningexperiences. The role and responsibility of the adult in nurturing children's wellbeing are interrogated and signposts for practice identified.