Special Education Teacher

The author says that it is important to know the history of juvenile court. Poor immigrant children had limited abilities to go to school or enjoy themselves because they spent their days working to help provide for their families. One hundred years ago children had no legal rights and were often jailed unfairly. The article includes information about John Altgeld, one of the first men to work to change the juvenile justice system.

Section “Redefining “Childhood”,

1st paragraph, underline words or phrases:

Juvenile court start of child-center reforms universal reforms (child-labor laws; compulsory education laws; the construction of playgrounds, recreation centers, and parks for children; and pioneering work in the area of early childhood education) – reforms

The juvenile court was the start of many reforms and redefined childhood as precious and needing protection.

2nd paragraph, underlined words or phrases:

American vision of childhood scared period in human life No longer “mini adults” accepted that they were different, less culpable for actions amenable to intervention

America’s vision of childhood, as a period of time where intervention is possible.

3rd paragraph, underlined words or phrases:

Chicago reformers civilized society process and punish them government moral responsibility “kind & just parents” (of trained and sensitive judges and probation officers.) – trained adults.

In Chicago, reformers of a civilized society recognized moral responsibilities of adults and the need for individualized attention for each child.

4th paragraph, underlined words:

First juvenile court abused, neglected and dependent children informal, non-adversarial, and closed to the public focus “what could be done to prevent reoffending made confidential

The first Juvenile courts, dealt with unfortunate children, who deserve confidentiality and