LIFEWAYS PRINCIPLES FOR CARING for
YOUNG CHIDREN
AT HOME AND IN CHILDCARE
(pdf download)
1. Young children thrive in the presence of parents and other devoted caregivers who enjoy life and caring
for children. They learn primarily through imitation/empathy and, therefore, need to be cared for by people with
integrity and warmth who are worthy of being imitated. This is the foundation for learning and healthy
development.
2. Having consistent caregivers, especially from birth to three years old and, preferably, up to primary school
age, is essential for establishing a sense of trust and well-being.
3. Children need relationship with people of all ages. Infants and toddlers thrive in family-style blended-age
care, while older children see nurturing modeled by the adults and experience their own place in the continuum of
growing up. Children of all ages can both give and receive special blessing when in the company of elders and youth
who enjoy children.
4. Each person is uniquely valuable, gifted with purpose and worthy of respect throughout all phases of his or
her life’s journey.
5. Human relationship and activity are the essential tools for teaching the young child all foundational skills
for life. Infants and toddlers develop most healthily when allowed to have freedom of movement in a safe
environment. For three- to six-year-olds, creative play, not technology or early academics, forms the best
foundation for school work and for life-long learning.
6. In infancy and early childhood, daily life experience is the “curriculum.” The child’s relationships to the
caregivers and to the environment are the two most important aspects through which the child can experience healthy
life rhythms/routines. These include the “nurturing arts” of rest and play, regular meal times, exploring nature,
practical/domestic activities, social creativity, music and simple artistic activities.
7. Young children thrive in a home or home-like environment that offers beauty, comfort and security, and
connection to the living world of nature. Healthy sense development is fostered when most of their clothing and
playthings are of non-synthetic materials and their toys allow for open-ended, imaginative play.
8. Childhood is a valid and authentic time unto itself and not just a preparation for schooling. Skipping or
hurrying developmental phases can undermine a child’s healthy and balanced development.
9. Parents of young children need and deserve support in their path of parenting—from professionals, family, and
one another. They thrive in a setting where they are loved, respected and helped to feel love and understanding for
their children.
10. Caregivers also have an intrinsic purpose and need to be recognized and appropriately compensated for the
value of their work. They need an environment where they can create an atmosphere of “home,” build true
relationship to the children, and feel autonomous and appreciated.
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