The author dedicates the article to the 100th anniversary of the birth of Prof. D.Sc. Elka Petrova-Katova – a Bulgarian and world scientist in the field of pre-school education. The presentation includes: highlights from the biography of Prof. D.Sc. Elka Petrova-Katova; leading areas in her academic and community life; a brief chronological overview of her work; memories of her wisdom and creative longevity.