Ability Quote by David Elkind
“Young children learn in a different manner from that of older children and adults, yet we can teach them many things if we adapt our materials and mode of instruction to their level of ability. But we miseducate young children when we assume that their learning abilities are comparable to those of older children and that they can be taught with materials and with the same instructional procedures appropriate to school-age children.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power of Play, 2007
Children learn best when teaching matches their developmental stage; using adult methods for them can hinder growth.
In simple terms: Teach kids with age‑appropriate methods.
Key Takeaway
Adapt instruction to each child's level.
Themes
education
development
learning
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
educational
insightful
When to use this quote
- preschool curriculum
- teacher training
- parental guidance
- educational policy
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
pedagogy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you assess a child's readiness for new concepts?
- What signs show a method is too advanced?
A Different Perspective
Over‑generalizing can ignore individual differences.
