Who established the first kindergarten in North America?

The establishment of the first kindergarten in North America is attributed to Marguerite Meyer Schurz. She opened this kindergarten in Watertown, Wisconsin, in 1856, inspired by the educational philosophies of Friedrich Froebel, who originally developed the concept of kindergarten in Germany. Schurz recognized the importance of providing young children with a structured environment that encouraged play and exploration as essential components of learning. This model laid the groundwork for early childhood education in North America, promoting the idea that education should begin at an early age, fostering social skills and creativity among young learners.

While other figures like Maria Montessori, John Dewey, and Friedrich Froebel significantly contributed to early childhood education, it was Schurz who specifically initiated the kindergarten movement in the United States.