A ética do cuidado como princípio da educação inclusiva para crianças autistas nos espaços de educação infantil

This work aims to reflect on the contributions of care ethics in inclusive education, especially in the process of including autistic children in early childhood education. We carried out a qualitative study, through a literature review and documentary analysis as a methodological path, based on the analysis of fundamental documents such as the Law of Guidelines and Bases (LDB) – Law No. 9,394, of December 20, 1996, Law No. 12764/2012 and the Federal Constitution, which ensure the principles of equality and human dignity, social and individual rights. Reflections on pedagogical practices based on the ethics of care were based on studies by Böck (2020); Gesser and Fietz (2021); Gesser, Zirbel and Luiz (2022) and Silva et al (2021), who explore this topic in depth. Studies indicate that pedagogical practices based on the ethics of care, integrated into the educational curriculum, treated as issues of human dignity and social justice, can break down the barriers faced by people with disabilities in learning contexts. This is particularly relevant for autistic children in early childhood education, guaranteeing them equal opportunities. The authors cite, for example, that pedagogical practices based on the ethics of care, focus on the planning and development of materials and activities based on the specific interests and abilities of each child, to be able to engage them in everyday experiences, they also cite as an example, the importance of tailoring the curriculum to meet the diverse needs of children, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in ways that best align with their capabilities. This article highlights the urgency of educational practices that recognize and value the ethics of care, not as a charitable practice, but as a genuine respect for human differences. The implementation of these practices in early childhood education can promote a more inclusive and dignified education, ensuring that all children, especially those with autism, have their needs met in a fair and equitable manner.