The Evolution of Childhood

By nparran
  • 300

    Antiquity

    1. Emotional struggles of parents.
    2. Unwanted and "imperfect" children were killed.
    3. Throwing children into rivers and exposure on hillsides were the common practice.
  • 500

    Middle Age

    1. Childhood was non-existent.
    2. Children were seen and treated like adults.
    3. Children had to work.
    4. Exposure to violence.
  • Period: 500 to 1400

    Middle Age

  • 1400

    Renaissance

    1. The idea of childhood innocence started to emerge.
  • Period: 1400 to

    Renaissance

  • 18th and 19th Centuries

    1. Children had to work in factories and mines.
    2. Children were exploited.
    3. Child labor laws began to emerge later in the 19th century.
  • Period: to

    18th and 19th Centuries

  • 20th Century

    1. Recognition of the importance of childhood.
    2. Advances in child psychology.
    3. Increased attention to child rights.
  • Period: to

    20th Century

  • Late 20th Century - Present

    1. Emphasis on child rights and protection.
    2. Developments in education, healthcare, and child psychology.
    3. Awareness of child labor, child abuse, and the importance of early childhood development.
    4. There are child advocacy organizations.
  • Period: to

    Late 20th Century - Present