The Importance of Being Little
By Erika Christakis
What Preschoolers Really Need from Grownups. Viking Press, 2016.
Summary of The Importance of Being Little book by Erika Christakis
A pragmatic approach to educating young children that relies on children’s innate ability to learn by observation, play, and guidance rather than testing, repetition, and rote memorization.
Chapters in The Importance of Being Little book summary
What do you get from this book? Uncover the defects in America’s preschool system and learn how to overcome them
The “preschool paradox” and rote instruction prevent children from reaching their full potential
Curiosity and observation lead to higher cognitive function and increased learning
American educational standards do not build intelligence, and labeling kids leaves them fragmented
More playtime leads to increased learning, but children need help opening up their imaginations
Kids should not be treated like consumers or have their emotions suppressed
Language skills come naturally with social interaction, but reading comprehension must be taught
Communicating with your child’s teacher is just as important as communicating with your child
Summary of the key insghits
Selected critiques in brief
Final word
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The Importance of Being Little — Book Summary Snapshot
Who should read The Importance of Being Little book
- pediatricians
- child therapists
- babysitters
About the author of The Importance of Being Little
Erika Christakis
With two master’s degrees and a decades-long career in education, Erika Christakis has devoted her professional life to the cultural and developmental needs of children. She was a Yale Child Study Center faculty member and serves on the National Advisory Board of Defending the Early Years, advocating for quality education for all children regardless of income or culture.
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