This paper delineates conceptions of early childhood programs from the 18th through the 20th centuries, and reveals how the programs changed as the concept of what constitutes knowledge changed. Discussion begins with reading instruction and hornbooks in Colonial America, and national language learning in the knitting school of Jean Frederick…

In contrast to a common set of roles or definitions, it is a common sense of mission that unifies practitioners in the field of early childhood education. Successful missions in time become transformed into organizational sagas that capture the allegiance and commitment of a group. Early childhood educators can increase their commitment to the…

The present discussion attempts to relate current changes in kindergarten education in China to contemporary political, social, and intellectual reforms. Kindergarten education in China has always reflected the country's social policy as well as its view of the nature of childhood. Currently, in China, more kindergartens exist under more varied…

Early childhood (ECE) programs should reflect the diversity of the populations and cultures for which they are designed. For example, there are varieties of support for early childhood education in the United States, where a basic distinction is made between programs for education and programs for child care. While some may believe that the…

Described are past and present changes in the preparation of kindergarten teachers in China, where kindergarten attendance is not compulsory and kindergarten programs are not universally available. Discussion focuses on (1) historical developments in, and current status of, Chinese kindergartens; (2) preparation of early childhood personnel,…