Theorist Fact Sheet
Martin Luther (1483-1546)
Had new ideas about how to change education such as all children, boys and girls should be universally and equally educated. All the towns and villages should have a school. Schools should educate the whole child, intellectually, religiously, physically and emotionally. John Cominius (1592-1670)
Believed the first years were important times in children’s development. He also believed that children learned best in natural real-world settings and that movement and activity were crucial to healthy learning. Thought learning should be enjoyable and wanted to educate everyone. Jean Rousseau (1712-1778)
Thought formal education should be withheld until after twelve years old. Children should learn from nature around them and use new sensory experiences. Children should be able to choose their own learning experiences. First to recognize that children are different from adults, in the way they think and reason. Johann Pestalozzi (1746-1827)
First to recognize the importance of observing and planning learning experiences for children. Saw every child as having the ability to learn. Felt that a good student-teacher relationship was important. Also that children learn through their peers and sensory experiences. Friedrich Froebel (1782-1852)
The father of modern kindergarten. Emphasized the benefits of early childhood play. Importance of singing both at home and school for young children. Developed what we now call circle time. Maria Montessori (1870-1952)
Felt that children with special needs were eager for learning experiences and if given them would develop more normally. Developed an educational program and opened Casa de Bambini in Italy. Margaret McMillan (1860-1931)
Concerned about health problems of children growing up in low income areas. Founded Open Air...