INCLUSIVE EDUCATION IN PRESCHOOL INSTITUTIONS: NORMATIVE AND LEGAL CHANGES AND IMPLEMENTATION PROSPECTS

Abstract

The article analyzes the new edition of the Law of Ukraine “On Preschool Education” (№ 3788-IX, 2024) in the context of ensuring equal access to quality education for children with special educational needs (SEN). The main legislative innovations aimed at developing inclusive education in preschool institutions (PI) have been identified, including the creation of inclusive groups, the expansion of the functions of inclusive resource centers(IRC), and the improvement of funding mechanisms and teacher training. The study examines modern scientific approaches to inclusive education and their reflection in national legislation. The key challenges in implementing the new regulations are outlined, including a shortage of qualified specialists, insufficient local funding, and the absence of standardized methodological guidelines and educational programs for children with various developmental disabilities. The global experience of implementing inclusive preschool education has been analyzed, and perspectives for improving the Ukrainian system of inclusive learning have been proposed. In particular, the study emphasizes the need to expand teacher training programs, develop effective mechanisms for monitoring the implementation of legislative norms, and strengthen state support for the integration of modern technologies into the educational process. The research findings can be used to further improve the regulatory framework for inclusive education, as well as to develop recommendations for optimizing the educational environment in preschool institutions in accordance with the needs of children with SEN.