This book discusses the developmental characteristics and needs of preschoolers and how to create an environment that fosters growth in all facets of their development. The four chapters examine intellectual development, social-emotional growth, spiritual growth, and physical development. Each chapter explores the particular needs and characteristics of each phase of development and offers suggestions supported by examples of how theories work in practice. Chapter 1 looks at how learning occurs, stages of learning, five tasks of preschool learning, and the learning environment. Chapter 2 examines the components of social-emotional development and stresses the need for: (1) gender identification and sex-role freedom; (2) development of self-esteem; (3) the opportunity to talk about feelings; (4) good conflict resolution; (5) trust, autonomy, and initiative; (6) multicultural experiences; (7) friendship; and (8) moral development. Chapter 3 explores ways of celebrating aspects of life that have deep meaning, noting that children appropriate a sense of values and a healthy spirit from approaching life with wonder; from being close to loving, trustworthy adults; and from celebrating special occasions with enthusiasm and creativity. Chapter 4 discusses three basic approaches to physical development: informal exercise, formal exercise, and wholesome nutrition. The list of 76 suggested resources includes professional materials, children's books, curriculum materials and videos, and records and cassette tapes. (TJQ)

ドロシー・ディクソンによる本作は、幼児教育の枠を超え、生命の可能性を慈しみをもって描いた人間讃歌です。著者の眼差しは単なる成長記録ではなく、子供の魂が震える瞬間に向けられています。理論と実践が織り交ぜられた文章からは、世界への「驚き」や「信頼」の尊さが鮮烈に伝わり、読者の教育観を根底から揺さぶります。 特に自尊心や他者との繋がりを、人生を彩る大切な要素として捉える視点は白眉です。慈愛に満ちた大人との関係がいかに子供の宇宙を広げるか。その本質を突いた情熱的な筆致は、子供に関わる人だけでなく、人間を愛するすべての人に深い感動と確かな勇気を与えてくれるでしょう。