ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to chart the emergence of influential theories on practice and policy in early childhood education and care, from the early eighteenth century onwards. It includes common themes and links between the theorists. The chapter provides an overview of historical practice and provision in the early years through the work of early pioneers and reformers. It also provides key biographical details of the lives of these pioneers and reformers, in an attempt to understand the influences on them that have helped to formulate their beliefs. The chapter examines the key historical beliefs held by these pioneers and reformers and consider their influence on current practices and policy in early childhood education and care. It considers new and emerging theories and theorists emphasising the current issues in Early Childhood Studies, both nationally and internationally. Friedrich Froebel was a German educator who is widely recognised for his contribution to early childhood theories and practice.
