Reimagining Work in the ECD Sector: A Systematic Review of Workplace Flexibility and Practitioner Well-Being
Keywords:
practitioners, workplace flexibility, well-being, work-life balance, early childhood educatorsAbstract
This systematic review (2013-2023) examines how workplace flexibility influences job satisfaction, well-being, retention, and professional development among Early Childhood Development practitioners (ECDPs) and managers. Guided by PRISMA and assessed with AMSTAR 2, the review screened 13,804 records, excluded 13,648, and retained 152 empirical studies for analysis. The synthesis reveals that flexible work arrangements (FWAs)—including remote work, flexi‑time, compressed weeks, and job‑sharing—consistently enhance practitioner well-being, increase job satisfaction, and improve retention rates across diverse educational settings. However, widespread adoption is constrained by financial limitations, logistical challenges, and institutional resistance, particularly within South African ECD centres where operational hours often exceed statutory limits. Key enablers identified are strong managerial support, clear policy frameworks, and investment in digital infrastructure, which together foster a supportive culture that encourages practitioner commitment. Practical recommendations urge managers to develop context-specific FWA policies, secure leadership buy-in, and address financial barriers, while policymakers should create supportive regulatory frameworks and fund necessary training and technology. The authors call for longitudinal research to assess long-term effects of FWAs and to refine implementation strategies that balance organisational needs with practitioner health and development.
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