THE INFLUENCE OF FRIEDRICH FROEBEL’S IDEAS ON THE FORMATION OF PRESCHOOL EDUCATION IN HUNGARY

Abstract

The influence of Friedrich Froebel’s works on preschool education formation in Hungary is difficult to overestimate. His ideas about learning through play and the use of educational toys impacted the approach to preschool education in the region. Froebel’s work helped shape the curricula and teaching methods in early preschools, providing a solid foundation for early childhood education and development. The purpose of our study was to analyze Friedrich Froebel’s influence on preschool education formation and development in Hungary. In the course of the study, we used the methods of analysis, systematization, and generalization of data based on the study of psychological and pedagogical, and scientific literature. We have analyzed the materials of the following Hungarian scientists: Ottó Vág, Endre Zibolen, István Mészáros, Elemér Kelemen, Rózsa Kurucz, Mária Hornyák, Sándorné Kövér, Béla Pukánszky, and others. And publications of Hanna Reho, who studied public preschool education formation and development in Zakarpattia, which in the studied period was a part of Austria-Hungary. Each of them touched on the analysis of Friedrich Froebel’s methods and their influence on the formation of the concept of preschool education in Hungary. As the researchers claim, the emphasis on learning and exploring through play allowed children to develop their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the collaborative nature of the learning environment fostered the development of social skills and teamwork. Froebel’s approach also prioritized the development of emotional intelligence, which is essential for healthy relationships and overall well-being. Froebel’s ideas have had a lasting impact on the education of many European countries and his contribution remains relevant and valuable even today.