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4000 BCE
Prehistoric times
Children raised by the tribe, communal living with extended family, limited differentiation of roles based on age or gender. They were likely not seen as distinct from adults and may have been expected to contribute to the community at an early age. -
Period: 3500 BCE to 500
Ancient civilizations
Childhood viewed as distinct phase of life, emergence of educational systems and specialized teachers, emphasis on discipline and obedience. Children were often treated as property of their parents and subject to harsh discipline. In ancient Greece, children were educated through play and games, while in ancient Rome, infanticide was not uncommon and children could be sold into slavery. -
Period: 500 to 1500
Middle Ages
Child labor common, children viewed as miniature adults, emergence of child-specific laws and protections. Childhood was seen as a time of innocence and dependence, but children were still expected to contribute to the family's economic well-being. In some societies, children were sent away to work as apprentices or servants from a young age. -
Period: 1300 to
Renaissance
Emergence of literature focused on childhood, concept of innocence and purity in childhood. Childhood became an object of sentimentalization and the idea of childhood innocence gained prominence. However, education was still primarily reserved for the elite, and children of lower classes often worked long hours. -
Period: to
Enlightenment
The idea of childhood as a distinct period of life gained further ground, and some educational reformers argued for more humane treatment of children. However, child labor remained widespread. Emphasis on reason and rationality, education seen as key to social progress, emergence of child-centered educational philosophy. -
Period: to
Industrial Revolution
Children were widely employed in factories and mines, often working long hours in dangerous conditions. Child labor laws were gradually introduced, but it took many years for them to become effective. Child labor is widespread, increasing focus on education and child welfare, emergence of child labor laws. -
Period: to
20th Century
Childhood became increasingly recognized as a distinct period of life and child welfare organizations were established to protect children's rights. Education became compulsory and child labor laws were strengthened. Today, childhood is generally seen as a time of protection and nurturing. Emergence of developmental psychology and child psychiatry, increasing emphasis on the importance of childhood experiences in shaping adult behavior and mental health.