Book Description

The social history of the Free Kindergarten Union of the State of Victoria, Australia, from inception in 1908 to the year 1980 is recorded in this book. Growth of the union is described within the context of the World Wars, the Depression, and urbanization and industrialization. The story begins with volunteerism and philanthropy, and with four kindergartens attempting to meet the needs of impoverished children. By mid-century the union had become an influence on government and throughout society. Some of its ventures (the training of teachers, medical and dental inspection of preschool children, and funding of kindergartens and their staff) have become government functions. Peaking at 89 member kindergartens in 1975 and facing increasingly high costs, overdrafts, and lack of management experience in local parent committees, the union persisted in pioneering efforts by also venturing into the field of preschool education for migrant children. Within this account other situations unfold, such as the conflict between popular and inexpensive full-day childminding and the more expensive educationally oriented preschools. More than a general survey, this work gives numerous details, providing, for example, particulars indicating the impact on staff of John Bowlby's research and showing the positive influence of the "Kindergarten of the Air" radio program on parents' attitudes toward kindergarten. (RH)