With the advent of "perestroika" and "glasnost," Russian childcare and education underwent a transitional period in practice and theory. Contrasting impressions from an earlier visit under the Communist regime, this book describes the experiences of Jean Ispa in her travels to Russia, observing children in six child care centers. Interviews are recounted with directors and caregivers or "upbringers" in child care centers concerning their methods and goals for children, ways that the educational and social environment had changed in recent years, and the most rewarding and most difficult aspects of their work. Also examined are results of a questionnaire disseminated to upbringers and parents regarding changing child care values. Following an introduction outlining the two visits, the chapters of the book are: (1) "Some History," reviewing the historical framework of early childhood education in the Soviet Union; (2) "Management and Staff," presenting aspects of center management; (3) "Top Goals"; (4) "Space and Equipment"; (5) "The Daily Routine"; (6) "Indoor Play"; (7) "Lessons: General Features"; (8) "Lessons: Content Area Specifics"; (9) "Outside Time"; (10) "Meals and Naps"; (11) "Discipline"; (12) "Relationships with Parents"; (13) "What We Think of Each Other's Programs?"; and (14) "What Next?" Contains 107 references. (BGC)