This bulletin (second in a series of three) provides current information and basic guidelines for the establishment or continuation of kindergarten programs. The bulletin discusses pre-6-year-old programs in their historical perspective and includes a section on the current status of research. The legal basis for kindergartens is also investigated. Terms such as early childhood education, nursery school, kindergarten, and primary school are legally defined. Five guidelines are given concerning mandatory kindergartens, length of school year, definition of school day, eligibility for kindergarten attendance, and control of communicable diseases. Another 10 guidelines govern operation of the program. These guidelines relate to community resources, pupils' self-concept, pupil-teacher ration, staff size, daily schedule, curriculum, and the first steps in establishment. Inter-relations, interaction, and involvement with teachers, auxiliary personnel, parents, administrators, and the State Department of Education are examined in the final bulletin section. (MH)