Includes bibliographical references and index.

"This book explores how the current process of schooling that frames public education through economic rather than democratic terms is fundamentally flawed, why it must change, and how all members and participants within the early childhood and elementary school communities must be a part of the reform process. The work is based on the author's recent studies of stakeholders' in the changed kindergarten as well as earlier studies examining the impact of reforms on classrooms, pre and in-service teachers, students, families, administrators, teacher educators, and other education stakeholders. By examining these issues empirically, practically, and theoretically, the author illuminates the complexity of what is currently occurring in kindergarten and other early childhood classrooms across the U.S. Then, Brown skillfully puts forward ideas for change that are practical and achievable in developing systems of schooling that can educate, foster, and sustain a democratic society"--,Provided by publisher.