Professional Documents
Culture Documents
UNPACKED CONTENT
Several historical events led to the creation of government programs and initiatives that have made
an impact on the development of early childhood education in America.
Cause: Result: Effect:
Historical Events Government Impact on Early
Programs/Initiatives Childhood Education
1. Great Depression and In 1943, Kaiser Child Care Served over 3000 children
World War II diverted Centers were started. Offered Freed women to work
attention from needs of health care, hot meals, Provided a model of
children toward need to work. convenience for working exemplary child care
Women went to work. Many parents, round-the-clock,
nurseries were opened. exemplary child care.
2. Launching of Soviet In 1956, Head Start was Brought national attention
satellite Sputnik in 1957 upset begun. Offered services for to importance of good care
the education community and low-income families --- health and education experiences
made the US education care and hot meals, for young children
system appear inferior. Civil compensatory education, Produced enthusiasm for
Rights Movement of 1960s parental involvement, and young childrens programs
identified education as the community control. Expanded enrollment in
best way to fight poverty. preschool programs
Serves about 20% of
low-income children
3. Changes in the family and In 1993, a NC partnership for Made early childhood
the workforce, 1970s and after children founded Smart Start education accessible to
More diverse families to ensure that young children children of all races,
(single-parent, stepparent, are ready to succeed in school. classes, cultures, and needs
extended, and blended) Focused on childrens health, Made child care affordable
Parents working; not at strengthening families, and
home cutting-edge approaches for
Shortage of quality centers early learning
and homes for child care