Children Quote by E.R. Braithwaite
““It is said that here we practise free discipline. That's wrong, quite wrong. It would be more correct to say that we are seeking, as best we can, to establish disciplined freedom, that state in which the child feels free to work, play and express himself without fear of those whose job it is to direct and stimulate his efforts into constructive channels. As things are we cannot expect of them high academic effort, but we can take steps to ensure that their limited abilities are exploited to the full." Here he smiled briefly, as if amused by some fleeting, private reflection. "We encourage them to speak up for themselves, no matter what the circumstances or the occasion; this may probably take the form of rudeness at first but gradually, through the influences of the various committees and the student council, we hope they will learn directness without rudeness, and humility without sycophancy. We try to show them a real relationship between themselves and their work, in preparation for the day when they leave school.””
About This Quote
Education should foster disciplined freedom, allowing children to explore without fear while guiding them constructively.
In simple terms: Education balances freedom with guidance.
Promote safe, guided exploration in learning environments.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- classroom
- after‑school programs
- parental guidance
- student councils
- curriculum design
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teachers maintain discipline without suppressing creativity?
- What structures support both freedom and responsibility?
Over‑control can stifle creativity; balance is delicate.