ABSTRACT
The basic task of pre-schools is to develop children’s physical, emotional, social and cognitive potential in addition to promoting the development of the communication skills which will support learning. Early childhood educational institutions should always complement family education and care whilst respecting family diversity and culture with an understanding that there may be different educational values among families. Croatian teachers working in early childhood education and care (ECEC) can be educated at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, but it is compulsory for them to hold a bachelor-level qualification in order to be able to work in ECEC institutions. Croatian legislative and pedagogical regulations are based on teachers’ autonomy and professional responsibilities. Teachers’ autonomy is feasible because the curriculum is relatively open without strict guidelines for educational work. Parent involvement in activities can include family gatherings, family outings, creative workshops for children and adults, visits to families, and family members’ visits to the classes.
