Praise, help, or even a look, may be enough to interrupt him, or destroy the activity. It seems a strange thing to say, but this can happen even if the child merely becomes aware of being watched. After all, we too sometimes feel unable to go on working if someone comes to see what we are doing. The great principle which brings success to the teacher is this: as soon as concentration has begun, act as if the child does not exist. Naturally, one can see what he is doing with a quick glance, but without his being aware of it.

A child is mysterious and powerful; And contains within himself the secret of human nature.

The work of education is divided between the teacher and the environment.

The unknown energy that can help humanity is that which lies hidden in the child.

The child is truly a miraculous being, and this should be felt deeply by the educator.

If children are allowed free development and given occupation to correspond with their unfolding minds their natural goodness will shine forth.

Education should therefore include the two forms of work, manual and intellectual, for the same person, and thus make it understood by practical experience that these two kinds complete each other and are equally essential to a civilized existence.