Work

Moving beyond collaboration to co-creation with families in early childcare institutions – a study of workshops with parents and staff

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines co-creating workshops in early childcare institutions (ECIs), focusing on the experiences of participating parents and staff and how a dream workshop can contribute to co-creating new knowledge, understandings and practices between parents and staff. The results indicate that the workshop ensured a social, inclusive and safe environment, as well as a collaborative learning, innovative and creative environment, promoting genuine dialogue and collaboration. The participants reported positive outcomes, including enhanced teamwork and a deeper understanding of what collaboration between parents and staff can entail. Some participants stated that the topic of the workshop was too vague and unrealistic. The study highlights the potential of co-creation in improving participatory practices in ECIs. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of ongoing engagement and the strategic integration of workshop outcomes to foster equitable collaboration.

Source: European Early Childhood Education Research Journal

DOI: 10.1080/1350293x.2026.2642205

Authors: Anne Grethe Sønsthagen, Evelyn Eggum, Lillian Pedersen, Ruth Ingrid Skoglund

Institution: Western Norway University of Applied Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Parental Involvement in Education

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Norges Forskningsråd