Barriers to the Accessibility of Childcare Services for Children With Disabilities Aged 0 to 5 Years: Perspectives of Parents and Childcare Staff

ABSTRACT According to Article 23 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, children with disabilities are entitled to education, including access to high‐quality childcare services. Despite international and national commitments to inclusion, persistent obstacles continue to limit equitable access to childcare services for children with disabilities. This descriptive qualitative study examines barriers to the accessibility of childcare services for children with disabilities aged 0 to 5 years in Canada. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 21 mothers and 21 childcare staff members. According to participants, key barriers include organisational limitations, lack of training among educators which leads to poor support, negative attitudes toward disability and inclusion, material shortages, and challenges related to the physical environment. Addressing these barriers is essential to fostering inclusive childcare systems that ensure equitable access and support the development and participation of all children.