Canada’s early childhood education is characterized by provincial systems and strong government support. Many provinces offer universal preschool (free or low-cost) programs, with Quebec providing childcare for approximately $10 per day. Public kindergartens are widely available, reducing financial burdens on families.

The educational approach emphasizes “play-based learning”, incorporating inquiry-based learning and STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Additionally, nature-based education is a key focus, with strong environmental learning programs.

Bilingual education is well-established, particularly in Quebec, where children have ample opportunities to learn both English and French. As a multicultural society, Canada also has robust support for immigrant and Indigenous education, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

Educator qualifications are strictly regulated, with each province requiring Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certification, ensuring a high standard of teaching quality. This contributes to Canada’s reputation as one of the world’s leading countries in high-quality early childhood education.

カナダの幼児教育は、州ごとの制度と政府支援の充実が特徴です。多くの州では**ユニバーサル・プリスクール（無償または低額）**を提供し、特にケベック州では1日約10ドルで保育を受けられます。公立幼稚園も広く普及しており、費用負担が軽減されているようです。

教育方針は「遊びを通じた学び（Play-based Learning）」を重視し、探求型学習やSTEAM教育（科学・技術・工学・芸術・数学）が導入されています。また、自然との触れ合いを重視し、環境教育が充実しているのも特徴です。

バイリンガル教育も進んでおり、ケベック州を中心にフランス語と英語の両方を学ぶ機会が豊富です。さらに、多文化社会として移民や先住民の教育支援が整備されており、インクルーシブ教育の先進国でもあります。

教育者の資格要件は厳格で、州ごとにECE（幼児教育資格）の取得が求められるため、質の高い幼児教育が提供されています。これらの特徴により、カナダは世界的に質の高い幼児教育を実現している国の一つです。

Early childhood education in the U.S. is supported by federal, state, and local governments, with a strong focus on low-income families. Programs like Head Start provide education, health, and nutrition services. State-specific grants lead to diverse policies, all aimed at improving education quality.

Education is provided in various formats, including public preschools (often free for low-income families), private nurseries and kindergartens, home-based care, and childcare centers.

Curricula vary by state but commonly include play-based learning, STEAM education, and social-emotional learning (SEL). Bilingual and dual-language programs are expanding due to immigration.

Teachers must meet strict qualifications, with increasing requirements for bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The CDA (Child Development Associate) is a key certification. Organizations like NAEYC provide professional training.

Parental and community involvement is emphasized, with home learning support and collaboration with specialists. Equity policies focus on reducing disparities through programs like First Five Years Fund (FFYF). Research institutions such as IES conduct studies to enhance evidence-based education policies.