The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of spatial and place research when exploring concepts of belonging, participation and citizenship in relation to young children and early childhood education and care (ECEC) in urban societies. Particular attention is paid to the position of marginalised children and those most at risk of discrimination, who experience barriers to accessing services and challenges to the rights of citizenship and identity. These are illustrated with reference to the ECEC projects and initiatives of Melel Xojobal, a non-governmental organisation working to improve the quality of life of indigenous migrant children and their families in San Cristobal de Las Casas, a rapidly growing city in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. (Contains 8 notes.)