Education Versus Care

Education and care both refer to the provision of services for children, particularly those under the age of compulsory schooling. Care can be defined [Page 709]as attending to the child’s needs and is primarily seen as a nurturing role. Education can be defined as supporting the learning and development of the child. Care focuses on attending to the child’s physical, emotional, and social needs in terms of their well-being. It is concerned with maintaining the well-being of the child, whereas education is more concerned with transforming the child. This entry examines the purpose and development of the education and care of young children. It also explores the status of education versus care from historical and international perspectives.