The development of the Bernard van Leer Foundation is recounted. The discussion illustrates general trends by means of selective project reviews and references to theoretical discussions which were prevalent in early childhood education during the period from 1965-1986. Also considered are activities encouraged by the foundation which have contributed to knowledge in the field. An introductory chapter is followed by chapters which focus on: (1) initial efforts of the foundation (1965-68) to support early childhood education projects, including four projects that illustrate the theory of compensation and the practical means of theory application; (2) developments that occurred when the importance of parent and community involvement was recognized (1969-72) and the foundation began to facilitate the development of innovative programs and information dissemination capacities; (3) beginnings (1973-76) of new directions for the 1980s; (4) the tremendous conceptual, project development, and funding growth that occurred (1977-80) when early childhood care was increasingly integrated into project activities; (5) the analysis of past experience (1981-82) and the development of a coherent policy for the 1980s; (6) initial implementation of that policy (1983-86); and (7) efforts to expand (1987-88) the work of the foundation, arguments raised at the time, and program directions for the 1990s. (RH)