Maternelles

Maternelles, or école maternelle, are early childhood educational institutions that provide preschool instruction for young children. In French-speaking contexts, the term usually denotes the stage of education that precedes primary school, with ages typically around 3 to 6, though exact ranges can vary by country. The purpose is to support social, language, cognitive, and physical development through structured play and daily routines.

In France, the école maternelle is part of the public education system and is often the first official level of schooling. It commonly includes three grades: Petite Section, Moyenne Section, and Grande Section, corresponding roughly to ages 3–4, 4–5, and 5–6. Some schools also include a Toute Petite Section for younger children. Classes are usually organized by age and emphasize play-based learning, language development, early numeracy, motor skills, and social skills. The curriculum also covers health, nutrition, and inclusion for children with special needs.

Governance and access: Public maternelles are run by local authorities with oversight from the national Ministry of Education and are generally free of charge. They prepare pupils for entry into the elementary school (école élémentaire) and often collaborate with families and health services to support overall development and well-being.

Global context and terminology: The concept originated in Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of expanding early childhood education. In many francophone countries, maternelles exist in public or private forms and may differ in age ranges and curriculum. The term is sometimes used to describe similar preschool settings outside France, though local terms and structures vary.