This study explores preschool children’s experiences of exclusion from Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Aotearoa New Zealand, as understood through parents’ accounts.
The researcher, Kate Morley, is doing this research as part of her Master of Educational and Developmental Psychology at Massey University. She hopes to recruit around 10 parent/caregiver participants to take part in a one-off semi-structured interview (30–45 minutes, either in person or online) in June, focusing on their child’s experiences, behaviours, and responses following exclusion. These expressions will be recognised as children's voices.
Grounded in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child framework, this research aims to contribute children’s lived experiences and expressions of exclusion; to raise awareness of this under-recognised issue and to advocate for enabling equitable, and inclusive practices within early childhood contexts.
Participant protection and sensitivity will be prioritised, and all participation is voluntary, confidential, and anonymised. Ethical approval has been granted by Massey University.
From Kate: "I’m interested in hearing your account of your child’s voice and behaviour, influenced by their experiences of exclusion. If you agree to contribute, you will have the opportunity to participate in one interview 20-45 minutes, either online or at a place and time convenient to you in June 2026. The total time for participating in the study could be up to an hour, allowing time for you to ask any additional questions, to sign consent and to settle in.
"There are a few criteria for taking part, including your child was under the age of five when they were excluded from preschool, the exclusion event happened within the last two years (for recall purposes), and that you feel comfortable discussing the impact of preschool exclusion on your child, from your child’s perspective (e.g. through voice, behaviour, play).
"My hope is that this will be a validating experience for you."
Click here to read more and get in touch via Kate's Participant Information Sheet.
