SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL CHILD CUSTODY INITIATIVES IN POLAND (HISTORICAL AND PEDAGOGICAL ASPECTS)

Abstract

Abstract. Child custody in Poland has been one of the main components of human social activities. Since ancient times the society has been trying to prevent orphanhood guided by religious and humanistic considerations. For many years charity remained the dominant form of care, its hallmarks being selflessness, voluntariness, awareness and purposefulness. It was carried out mainly through the church or religious institutions. A major issue tackled in the article is the emergence of orphans and homeless children due to war, poverty or epidemics. Thus, the establishment of shelters, orphanages, and other centres where children would receive support and assistance was of utmost importance at the time. As far back as the Medieval Period, for instance, assistance was received not only by the orphans and the poor, but also by those sick, beggars and pilgrims. It is noteworthy that the first shelters for children were initiated by Princess Maria-Ludwika. The custody and supervision of children was carried out by a special committee. The idea behind the Congregation of Women- Custodians at the Gospel community was to provide the poor, sick and orphans with food. Most custodial institutions and charitable societies emerged between 1897 and 1905 on the territory of the Polish Kingdom. Hospitals and shelters set up in churches and religious communities performed custodial functions and provided support and assistance to the needy and abandoned children guided by Christian charity principles. An important means of supporting children and young people were orphan foundations, custodial and religious institutions and charitable societies. Poland has been noted for its attempts to overcome child homelessness, improve living conditions and arrange custodial activities. It has been proved that social and educational initiatives with regard to child custody were diverse and multifaceted and left a mark in the history of Poland and custodial pedagogy. The societies were numerous, well-organized, had their own statutes and funds. The societies’ programs were well-thought and have not lost their relevance until today. The custodial and educational activities of charitable societies have enriched pedagogical concepts, substantiated custodial traditions as an essential part of Polish pedagogy. The idea of humanism remains central to providing all-round care for children in custodial institutions.