What is heki?

The model project “heki – Hessische Kindertagestätten inklusiv” is a Hesse-wide, participatory model project for the inclusive design of Hessian daycare centers. Together with practitioners, the specialist public, academia and, of course, children and their families, we want to strengthen inclusive education in daycare centers and anchor it in the long term.

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The project

heki – Inclusive daycare centers in Hesse

is a state-wide model project for the inclusive design of daycare centers in Hesse based on the education and upbringing plan for children aged 0 – 10 in Hesse (BEP). The project runs from summer 2024 to the end of 2026.

heki brings together children, families, professionals and experts to work hand in hand to explore and shape what real participation can mean in everyday daycare. This is based on a broader concept of inclusion that encompasses the appreciation of gender diversity, the different abilities of children and the social and cultural dimensions. Heterogeneity and diversity are recognized and understood as an opportunity. The project will tie in with the inclusive issues and focal points of the respective locations.
Our mission: to build structures under the given conditions and to identify successful concepts that ensure that every child is welcomed and supported. In close cooperation with eight selected model daycare centers, we are developing practical solutions to show how inclusion can succeed, even under the current challenging conditions.

Daycare centers often face a major challenge, especially in view of the current conditions, such as a shortage of specialists and scarce resources.
A holistic approach and the support of the social environment and other regional partners are required to ensure that all children actually have access to high-quality education and can develop their individual potential.

What we want to achieve:

  • Recording the needs of children, families and professionals in Hesse
  • Developing inclusive solutions that work in practice
  • Development of a framework for daycare centers in which inclusion can succeed
  • Qualification of specialists to strengthen and sustainably anchor inclusive education in daycare centers – based on the BEP