Early Childhood Education, Democracy and Citizenship

Early Childhood Education, Democracy and Citizenship

In addition to imparting scientific knowledge, an abiding purpose of public education is to enhance understanding of society and encourage demo - cratic attitudes in children. Article 29 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child offers a guideline to education authorities in relation to democratic practice and values in schools. Further, a practical rationale is outlined to explain why respecting the rights of young children leads to better education and nurtures the child's motivation and desire to participate. In the light of the Convention, the chapter examines early childhood curricula in three countries-France, Korea and Sweden-with regard to democracy and cit - izenship. In particular, ECEC centres in Sweden strive to ensure that democ - ratic principles are not only taught but that they are also reflected in the organisation, relationships and daily life of the institution.