Jean-Marc-Gaspard Itard
"To be judged fairly, this young man
must only be compared to himself." In his introductory statement to the
French Minister of the Interior when explaining his work with "The Wild Boy of Aveyron"
"If at the height of this emotion, I suddenly left off reproaching him and substituted caresses and a few words of affection and encouragement, I obtained an increase of emotion which doubled the expected effect." Always remember that natural caring can result in a bonding way more powerful than threat.
Maria Montessori
"In the life of the child play is something of little importance which [the child] undertakes for lack of something better to do". When I watch students play, it doesn't seem to me that they are doing it out of only boredom.
" The wandering minds that breaks away from reality, breaks away also from healthy normality." I think I disagree with this statement completely, basing my belief on my own experience as a teacher. I have very rarely encountered a child that couldn't make the distinction between pretend-play and reality.
-Sandy Escobido, Deputy Field Director, Los Angeles Preschool Advocacy Initiative, California Community Foundation: "We, as professionals in the early childhood field, have an opportunity to shape a child's life for the better."
-From Louise-Derman-Sparks, Professor Emeritus, Pacific Oak college, CA: Early childhood education is "the passion to make sure that all children are taught in environments and in ways that truly nurture their ability to grow and to develop to their fullest ability."
I enjoyed the quotes of Jean-Marc-Gaspard Itard and your reflections on those quotes. All children, whether your own or your students, should always be compared only to themselves. Each child is unique and develops at his own rate. In my experience, the way to a troubled child's heart is through caring, understanding and affection. That is often what they are lacking and looking for.
ReplyDeleteYour postings seem to relate to a child in so many ways I always loved Maria Montessori philosophy on early childhood because I believe she allowed children to be children.
ReplyDeleteHi Amanda,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your quotes that you selected. I believe that all children are their own individual and should not be compared to one another or anyone else. With my art background that was one of the main things that I had to teach my students, to not worry about what their classmate was creating, but to focus on their own. Too often as a culture we are caught into comparing ourselves to what others are doing and need to start with our children and teach them that being yourself is beautiful.
Thank you to you and Maureen for educating me on Montessori curriculum. You two have brighten my horizon, still wish it was more socialization in terms of play-based, however, still inspirational.
ReplyDeleteHello Amanda,
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing those quotes! I like the quote from Louise Derman-Sparks. I also believe that all children should be taught in environments that are conducive to learning. The early childhood years provide the foundation for lifelong learning. Educators must continue to make sure they provide that solid foundation to help each child reach their full educational potential.