In response to increased interest in early childhood programs, this report, prepared by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Instruction, presents the goals of kindergartens and the rationale for their existence. Both supportive and nonsupportive statements on compulsory kindergarten are included. Child development charts describe the physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and language characteristics and needs of 4-, 5-, and 6-year-olds, and suggest ways in which the kindergarten tries to meet these needs. Included is a list of desirable personality characteristics of kindergarten teachers, a list of suggested equipment, and a checklist of criteria for evaluating a good kindergarten. (NH)