-
Martin Luther (1483–1546) believed in the importance of reading and teaching children to read. Luther translated the Bible from Latin to vernacular language, allowing people to learn in there native language.
-
John Comenius (1592–1670) wrote Orbis Pictus, the first picture book for children. He believed that early experiences formed what a child's future would be. He also said that education should occur through the senses.
-
John Locke (1632–1704) said that children are born as blank tablets. He believed that children’s early experiences help to determine who they are and become as adults.
-
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712–1778) advocated natural approaches to child rearing. He felt that children’s natures unfold as a result of maturation according to an innate timetable.
-
Johann Pestalozzi (1746–1827) advocated that education should follow the course of nature. He believed that all education is based on sensory impressions. He also promoted the idea that a mother could best teach children.
-
Robert Owen (1771–1858) thought that the environment determined children’s beliefs, behaviors, and achievements. He believed that society can shape children’s character and that education can help build a new society.
-
Friedrich Froebel (1782–1852) believed that children develop through “unfolding.” He compared children to growing plants and founded the kindergarten “Garden of Children.” He developed “gifts” and “occupations” to help young children learn.
-
John Dewey (1859–1952) theory of schooling that emphasized children and their interests rather than subject matter. He said that the child’s early school experiences should reflect the home life, motivation is internal to the experiences and the child and the teacher’s role is to know the children and to choose stimulating problems for them.
