Material and Play for All: Educators’ Perceptions of Inclusion involving Analogical and Digital Solutions in Early Childhood services


Abstract

This article explores inclusive play in early childhood, placing particular emphasis on the integration of analogic and digital solutions. It is based on key regulatory documents such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and ICF-CY (WHO), as well as on the latest research on play as a practice requiring innovative strategies and alternative communication techniques. The empirical analysis examines preliminary data from the play materials section of the ‘Pensare IN Grande/ThinkINg Big’ inter-university research project questionnaire. This section explores Italian educators' perceptions of using and adapting play materials to foster inclusion. The results reveal widespread awareness of the importance of accessible and diverse materials, alongside practical challenges in adapting resources to different needs and inadequacies in staff training. The discussion highlights the need for innovative training courses that promote the harmonious integration of analogue and digital elements in play.