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History of the Conception of Childhood

By Victor Pareja
  • 300

    Antiquity

    Antiquity
    • During antiquity, childhood was primarily viewed as a period of fragility and dependence.
    • High rates of infanticide and abandonment of unwanted children reflected the perception that children were considered a burden.
    • Child rearing was mainly the responsibility of mothers, with fathers having little involvement in child care.
  • 400

    Middle Ages

    Middle Ages
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  • Period: 400 to 1300

    Middle Ages

    • In the Middle Ages, religious influence and Christian morality began to shape the perception of childhood.
    • It was considered important to care for and educate children to instill moral and religious values.
    • Although infanticide and abandonment persisted, the idea of protecting the innocence and purity of children began to emerge.
  • 1400

    The Renaissance and subsequent period

    The Renaissance and subsequent period
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  • Period: 1400 to

    The Renaissance and subsequent period

    • During the Renaissance and subsequent period, the idea of childhood as a stage of innocence and purity became popularized.
    • Some artistic and literary representations emerged that portrayed childhood as an idealized period.
    • Educational institutions for children from noble families appeared, although education for children from lower classes was limited.

  • Industrial Revolution - 18th Century

    Industrial Revolution - 18th Century
    • With the Industrial Revolution, childhood underwent significant changes due to urbanization and industrialization.
    • Many children were employed in factories and mines, facing dangerous and exploitative working conditions.
    • Greater awareness of children's rights emerged, and the movement to ban child labor gained momentum.

  • 19th - 20th Centuries

    19th - 20th Centuries
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  • Period: to

    19th - 20th Centuries

    • During this period, compulsory education laws were enacted in many countries to ensure that all children had access to education.
    • Institutions were created to protect children from abuse and neglect, and child welfare standards were established.
    • Childhood was increasingly recognized as a crucial stage of development requiring specialized care and attention.

  • Present

    Present
    • Today, the conception of childhood focuses on the holistic well-being of the child, including their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development.
    • The importance of play, early education, and equitable access to healthcare and education is emphasized.
    • Policies and programs have been implemented to ensure children's rights and protect them from exploitation, abuse, and discrimination.