אזרחים קטנים למופת: דמותו של ״הילד הראוי" בגן החובה בראי האזרחות הטובה

This article examines aspects of good citizenship as reflected at the pre-primary stage in kindergarten. Based on a qualitative research approach, we focused on an instrumental case study of three public kindergartens, and examined aspects of the mutual relationship between the children and the kindergarten teachers. The ״ideal child ״ was examined by analyzing official Ministry of Education curriculum-related documents. The actions of the kindergarten teachers were examined in a series of observations in each kindergarten. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the kindergarten teachers and teacher assistants. The results of the research highlight the role of kindergarten teachers who promote various aspects of citizenship. They shape the ״ideal child ״ as an active initiator already at kindergarten stage, not as a future citizen. Children can act as ״good citizens״ who display personal responsibility, participation, and an orientation to justice.