The history of childhood is of major importance to any study of human society. This book reviews systematically the attitudes and practices of parents toward their children in different Western cultures and time periods. The chapters of the book are: (1) "The Evolution of Childhood" (Lloyd deMause); (2) "Barbarism and Religion: Late…

Studies French children who had diverse day care experiences to determine whether day care is a risk factor in socio-emotional development. Finds that early day care is associated with increased social competence and not associated with behavioral problems; contradicts a similar U.S. study. Suggests difference may be due to poorer quality U.S. day…

This theme issue of the Bernard van Leer Foundation's "Newsletter" is devoted to approaches to working with disadvantaged children up to 3 years of age. An introduction describes the crucial period from before birth to 3 years, noting that although the mother's body provides the an essential part of the environment, other easily…