Let Them Know They Can Just Run Around and Nobody Expects Them to Do Homework
Abstract
This paper reports findings from a study of Kenyan parents’ perceptions of an ideal early childhood educational environment for their children. Honouring their voices and showcasing them as advocates for quality early childhood education and care, findings are presented as constructed conversations between parents. Twenty-three parents who are professionals, have young children and live in Nairobi were interviewed for this study. Data were then analysed using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Parents reported that quality programs included playfulness, freedom and purpose and that it took a partnership of teacher, child and parent to realise the ideal.