The emerging concept of system alignment refers to how different systems in care and education of young children can be integrated to work together as a whole system that is more effective, efficient, and equitable to produce excellent outcomes in children. The purpose of this article is to provide a review of the existing literature on system alignment in terms of the definition and operationalisation of this concept. The focus is on various models (frameworks) that guide the effort of system alignment as well as factors (strategies) that influence the effectiveness of system alignment. In review of these critical issues, the authors attempted to establish a comprehensive mechanism for system alignment as well as a classification of macro-level and micro-level factors that facilitate system alignment. (author abstract)