Stakeholders’ opinions of quality in Norwegian kindergartens

Abstract

The theme for this article is parents’ and centre leaders’ opinions regarding what makes a good kindergarten. Both stakeholder groups agree on statements expressing child-centred values as indicators of a good kindergarten. However, their opinions differ regarding children’s learning and work with letters and numbers; more parents than centre leaders respond that learning, literacy and mathematics are hallmarks of a good kindergarten. Parents with short education find these characteristics most important. The traditional Nordic kindergarten-concept is still strong among parents, but their opinions of learning vary. Therefore, perspectives on learning should be highlighted in dialogues between parents and staff.