TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE? THE CRPD AS A STANDARD TO EVALUATE SOUTH AFRICAN LEGISLATION AND POLICIES FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

In the light of growing recognition of the importance of early childhood development in South Africa and internationally, the CRPD provides important pointers regarding the rights of young children with disabilities. A critique of selected South African legislation and policies is provided through the lens of the CRPD, identifying key gaps and inconsistencies. The article concludes by making recommendations as to how the ‘transformative potential’ of the CRPD could be tapped with respect to advancing the rights of children with disabilities to early childhood development services.