Sandell, E. J. and Klypa, O. V. 2012. Kindergarten in Russia’s Far East: The Effect of Climate. In S. C. Wortham (Ed.). Global Perspectives in Early Childhood Education: Common Characteristics and Unique Qualities in Preschool Programs, pages 57 – 66. New York, NY: Springer Publishing Co. ISBN 978-94-007-4971-9.
Russia’s Far East region is dark, cold, and isolated for much of the year. However, programs for young children demonstrate the community commitment to provide for its youngest citizens and to promote the cultural heritage of the region. This chapter addresses how leaders have adapted childhood care and education to the region’s geography, economy, and culture. In 2008, the city of Magadan reorganized the programming and renovated the building for Kindergarten 3. The program components are organized so that children acquire knowledge and correct deviations, as well as to develop personality, acquire learning skills, enhance self-concept, and orient to the surrounding world. The fundamental direction and content of the Kindergarten includes: revival, preservation and transfer of meanings and values of national culture, and love for nature and the native land in which youngsters live and develop. The program, “Severyachok: Children of the North,” provides children with experiences related to the lives of indigenous people groups. Children hear stories, see everyday objects from the natives of the Far North–East, and learn how people use these objects in life.