Kindergartens in Malta : an analysis of the aims, attitudes, aids and techniques in the Kindergarten situation and how it complements the development of 4/5 year olds in the Maltese context

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the stated aims for early childhood education in Malta, and their relevance according to the needs of four-year old children. Furthermore, it aims to investigate the physical resources that accommodate these sims and needs in the Maltese Kindergarten state class, and the attitudes of the people that are concerned with Kindergarten children, as regards to method of teaching. The study involves three samples. A group of 50 parents of children in Kindergarten classes were chosen at random and were interviewed. A group of 50 Kindergarten Assistants, also chosen at random, answered a set questionnaire. Finally, a set of Kindergarten activities which take place in all Maltese State Kindergartens, were observed in a class of 26 children, at the St. Paul's Bay Primary School.