The greatest source of discouragement is the conviction that one is unable to do something

If the idea of the universe is presented to the child in the right way, it will do more for him than just arouse his interest, for it will create in him admiration and wonder, a feeling loftier than any interest and more satisfying.

There are many things which no teacher can convey to a child of three, but a child of five can do it with ease.

No one can be free unless he is independent. Therefore, the first active manifestations of the child's individual liberty must be so guided that through this activity he may arrive at independence.

The child builds his inmost self out of the deeply held impressions he receives.

This then is the first duty of an educator: to stir up life but leave it free to develop.

We cannot create observers by saying 'observe,' but by giving them the power and the means for this observation and these means are procured through education of the senses.