イランでは、幼児教育（ECE）は主に4歳から6歳の子どもを対象に幼稚園を通じて提供されています。カリキュラムは、認知的、社会的、感情的な発達を重視し、正式な学校教育への準備を目的としています。しかし、幼児教育の重要性が認識されているにもかかわらず、就学前教育を受けている6歳未満の子どもは全体の約2％にとどまり、その大半が働く母親を持つ家庭の子どもです。この低い参加率の一因として、幼児教育が義務化されていないことや、主に民間部門によって提供されるため、多くの家庭が料金を負担できない現状が挙げられます。

幼児教育プログラムは教育省によって監督されていますが、標準化されたカリキュラムが欠如しており、教育者の専門的な訓練の必要性が急務です。1984年には就学前1年間の義務化を試みましたが、1989年には政治的および経済的な課題により中止されました。限られた普及率、教師訓練の不十分さ、インフラの制約など、包括的な政策開発とECE分野への投資が必要です。

In Iran, Early Childhood Education (ECE) targets children aged 4 to 6, primarily facilitated through kindergartens. The curriculum emphasizes cognitive, social, and emotional development to prepare children for formal schooling. Despite the recognized importance of ECE, enrollment rates remain low, with approximately 2% of children under six receiving formal preschool education, mainly those with working mothers. This limited participation is partly due to ECE not being mandatory and the predominance of private sector provision, which imposes fees that many families cannot afford. The Ministry of Education oversees these programs; however, there is a lack of standardized curricula and an urgent need for specialized training for educators. Efforts to introduce a compulsory pre-primary year were initiated in 1984 but were reversed in 1989 due to political and economic challenges. Persistent issues such as limited coverage, inadequate teacher training, and infrastructural constraints highlight the need for comprehensive policy development and increased investment in the ECE sector.

Israel has a well-established early childhood education system, with public funding ensuring free preschool for children from age three. The country’s approach emphasizes play-based learning, creativity, and social development. The Ministry of Education oversees early education programs, ensuring that kindergartens follow a structured curriculum while allowing flexibility for inquiry-based learning.

Kindergartens in Israel focus on fostering independence, curiosity, and collaboration. Many institutions incorporate STEAM education and hands-on activities, encouraging problem-solving and innovation. Bilingual and multicultural education is also a priority, with programs in Hebrew, Arabic, and English to cater to diverse communities.

Private and alternative education models, such as Montessori and Waldorf, are available for families seeking non-traditional learning approaches. Special education programs support children with learning disabilities, ensuring inclusivity.

Israel’s early education system is recognized for integrating modern pedagogies while emphasizing national identity and cultural values. The government continues to invest in teacher training, infrastructure, and curriculum development to maintain high-quality education standards.