What is your personal philosophy of education for young children?

Answer 1

Make sure they have the "basics" or they will struggle later on. A firm grasp of reading, writing, and basic math are building blocks that are invaluable. Encouragement and praise is excellent, and there is a fine balance between pushing too hard and having too low expectations. Always let them believe they can do it and you will help them along the way. Encourage thinking in new ways and independent thinking. Instill the love of learning and the importance of education.

Answer 2

Young children are constantly learning. Do we need to put them in a school environment to learn? No! We just need to guide them as they learn from their play and interaction with others.
Forcing a child to sit still and learn what you think is important is the easiest way I know of to encourage a child to "burn out".

Young children are natural learners so relax and let them learn at their own pace not yours or someone else's. Give them the freedom to learn, to explore, to communicate and you will have a group of the brightest children you have ever seen. :-)

Answer 3

I think it is best summed up by this verse by Lewis Carrol:

I speak severely to my boy,
I beat him when he sneezes;
For he can thoroughly enjoy
The pepper when he pleases!