The extent and nature of preschool education in Europe is discussed, with reference to England and Wales, France, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. Reports on preschool education in these countries give examples of both an early and a late start to compulsory education, very extensive and very limited preschool provision, and the effects of private and state support. Educational provision is made for very small numbers of children under three years of age, if at all. In most of the countries primary education is separate from preschool education and contacts between the two systems are usually limited. Countries are compared on such matters as preschool staffing, curriculum, class size, and parent involvement. Lack of resources and conflicting values are considered the main reasons for the slow growth of nursery, (or preschool) education in Europe. Suggestions are made about the policies that governments should adopt in this sphere, and about the important roles that parents and teachers should take as partners in the educational process. NH)