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10,000 BCE
Infanticide and Abandonment (Prehistory - Ancient Times):
In early human societies, infanticide and abandonment were common practices due to harsh living conditions and limited resources. Children were often viewed as economic liabilities, especially during times of famine or conflict. Children in prehistoric times lived in small, nomadic hunter-gatherer groups. Childhood was likely brief, with children expected to participate in gathering food and learning survival skills from an early age. -
3000 BCE
Ambivalent Parenting (Ancient Times - Middle Ages):
During this period, parents had ambivalent feelings towards their children, alternating between affection and hostility.
Children were often subjected to harsh discipline and violence as a means of socialization. Infanticide and abandonment still occurred but were gradually becoming less prevalent. In ancient Mesopotamia, children were often considered the property of their parents and were expected to contribute to family labor from a young age. Educationonly for the elite classes -
500 BCE
Neglectful Childhood (Middle Ages - Renaissance):
Child-rearing practices remained neglectful, with children receiving minimal emotional support and nurturing.
Many children were sent away to live with wet nurses or servants, depriving them of parental care. Education was limited and often focused on religious instruction rather than intellectual development. In ancient Greece, children were raised with an emphasis on physical fitness, education. Boys received formal education while girls were primarily trained in domestic skills. -
1000
Medieval Period (500 - 1500 CE):
Childhood was relatively short, with children often starting work as soon as they were physically able.
Education, primarily provided by the Church, focused on religious teachings and basic literacy for the privileged few. -
1400
Emergence of the Modern Family (Renaissance - 18th Century)
he Renaissance saw a shift towards a more child-centered approach to parenting.
Families became smaller, allowing parents to invest more time and resources in the upbringing of their children.
The idea of childhood innocence and the importance of nurturing emerged during this period. Childhood began to be recognized as a distinct phase of life, with the emergence of children's literature and the idea of nurturing and educating young minds. -
Sentimentalization of Childhood (18th - 19th Century)
The Enlightenment brought about a greater appreciation for childhood and child welfare.Rousseau's ideas on natural child development and the importance of education influenced parenting practices. Sentimental literature and art portrayed children as innocent and pure beings, deserving of protection and care. The rise of industrialization led to significant changes in childhood, with many children working long hours in factories under harsh conditions. -
Industrialization and Child Labor (Industrial Revolution)
The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in child-rearing practices.
Children were often forced to work in factories under exploitative conditions, deprived of education and proper care. Children worked long hours in factories under hazardous conditions, often deprived of education and proper care. -
Progressive Reforms (Late 19th - Early 20th Century)
Social reform movements advocated for legislative changes to improve child welfare. Child labor laws were enacted, and compulsory education became more widespread. Social reformers and child advocates campaigned for legislative changes to improve child welfare.
Child labor laws were enacted, establishing minimum age requirements and limiting working hours for children.
Compulsory education laws were implemented to ensure that children received formal schooling. -
1900
The concept of adolescence gains recognition as a distinct stage of life. -
1901 Sigmund Freud publishes
"The Psychopathology of Everyday Life," which contributes to the understanding of child psychology. -
Child labor laws begin to be enacted in various countries, restricting the employment of children.
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Boy Scouts of America is founded, promoting outdoor activities and character development for boys.
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The Children's Bureau is established in the United States to address issues related to child welfare.
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Save the Children organization is founded, aiming to improve the lives of children worldwide.
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Child guidance clinics begin to emerge, providing mental health services specifically for children.
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Social Security Act is enacted in the United States, providing financial assistance to families with dependent children.
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UNICEF (United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund)
is established to provide humanitarian aid to children affected by World War II. -
Declaration of the Rights of the Child
is adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, outlining fundamental rights for children. -
Head
Start program is established in the United States, providing comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families. -
Convention on the Rights of the Child
is adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, establishing the rights of children globally. -
1989
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child enters into force, setting out the civil, political, economic, social, health, and cultural rights of children. -
Psychological Insights and Parenting Trends (20th Century - Present)
The field of psychology provided new insights into child development, influencing parenting practices. The concept of attachment theory emphasized the importance of secure emotional bonds between children and caregivers. Technological advancements brought new challenges and opportunities for children, shaping their experiences and interactions with the world around them. -
Sustainable Development Goals
are adopted by the United Nations, focusing on ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all, including goals related to children's health, education, and well-being. -
COVID-19
pandemic disrupts education and normal childhood experiences worldwide, highlighting the importance of resilient health and social systems for children.