History of Childcare and Parenting

The history of childcare and parenting is closely tied to homemaking, evolving over centuries. In early societies, communal care was common, with extended families sharing responsibilities. As societies industrialized, the nuclear family became the norm, and childcare often fell primarily to mothers. Parenting philosophies shifted, influenced by social, economic, and scientific changes, such as the rise of children's rights and developmental psychology. Over time, various childcare practices emerged, reflecting cultural values and available resources, leading to modern approaches that emphasize children's emotional, social, and educational needs, while also recognizing the importance of support systems for parents.