The foundational work of Estefanía Castañeda y Núñez de Cáceres (1872-1937) marked a crucial turning point in Mexican pedagogy. Her efforts steered early childhood education toward a model centered on experiential learning and a strong connection to the natural world. Castañeda championed the inherent capacity of young children to learn through exploration and play, moving the system away from traditional rote memorization.
This progressive educational shift was informed by rigorous international study. Born in Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Castañeda sought advanced pedagogical training abroad, immersing herself in progressive philosophies at the Chicago Kindergarten College and later at Columbia University in New York. This global exposure provided the necessary framework for transforming local educational practices upon her return to Mexico.
Putting her theories into immediate practice, Castañeda established the first kindergarten in Mexico City in 1903, designated as institution number 1, which she named Federico Fröebel in tribute to the system's originator. Beyond local establishment, she actively promoted early childhood education nationally and internationally, representing Mexico at various congresses. Her pioneering spirit earned state recognition in 1921 when the influential figure Justo Sierra bestowed upon her the title of Honorary Professor of Elementary Education.
Castañeda's vision extended beyond the classroom to address broader societal needs. In 1933, she inaugurated the Kindergarten and Social Work seminar. This initiative was designed to train new social workers specifically equipped to assist rural populations, demonstrating a holistic view that linked child development with community empowerment. The principles she advocated, emphasizing innate curiosity, established a lasting blueprint for educational development in Mexico, continuing to resonate long after her passing on February 22, 1937.