Based on the cultural historical perspective of human development, this investigation aimed at understanding children's concepts about preschool. The sample was composed of five 5-year-old dyads enrolled in preschool. Scenes and instructions organized along three play sessions were used to elicit episodes compatible with the questions of the study. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data. The results showed that play, school activities, characteristics of the physical environment, teachers and school rules were highlighted by children regarding their conceptions about school. These findings show the importance of thinking which spaces and opportunities preschools are actually providing for children.
Children's conceptions, preschool; play; child development
