Advocacy for excellence: A case study on supporting high-quality, equitable outcomes for a child who is Deaf in a kindergarten setting

This case study explores inclusive education through the experience of Daisy, a Deaf child in a New Zealand kindergarten, highlighting that true inclusion extends beyond access and into equity in experience and in outcome. Guided by the Aotearoa Deaf Community’s social model of disability, the study illustrates how kaiako, whānau, peers, and support services collaboratively removed barriers to participation. Using the five guiding questions aligned to Te Whāriki, the team creates a responsive environment where Daisy is empowered to flourish and thrive. This case provides early childhood educators with an example of a working model where theory has been successfully applied in practice to foster authentic inclusion, enabling Deaf children to experience belonging, connection, and equitable outcomes.