The RIE Educaring™ Approach

Developed by Magda Gerber, RIE’s Educaring™ Approach is based on a genuine and deep respect for infants and toddlers. Parents and teachers are encouraged to view them as competent participants in their own development — and to provide them with time and space for freedom of movement, expression and interactions.

The key to Educaring is for infants and adults to trust each other, problem-solve and embrace self-discovery. When allowed to unfold in their own way — and in their own time — children discover and inspire the best in themselves and others. This fosters an authentic sense of self, providing a foundation for secure relationships, enduring curiosity and lasting self-confidence.

Important principles of Educaring:

• Basic trust in the child as an initiator, explorer and self-learner
• An environment that is physically safe, cognitively challenging and emotionally nurturing
• Ample time for uninterrupted play
• Freedom to explore and interact with other infants
• Involvement in all care activities: the child becomes an active participant, rather than a passive one
• Sensitive observation of the child in order to understand his/her needs
• The development of discipline through consistency, along with clearly defined limits and expectations