Child psychology / by Vilhelm Rasmussen ; [translated by G.G. Berry].

Rasmussen, Vilhelm, 1869-1939.

Date:: [1920]

Catalogue details

Licence: In copyright

Credit: Child psychology / by Vilhelm Rasmussen ; [translated by G.G. Berry]. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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is even a little sceptical—rightly so in my opinion— with regard to the specially devised methods by which it is proposed to test children's powers, because in the application of these tests an indirect pressure is exerted, inimical to that unconstrained development of the soul life which temporarily ought to take the foremost place. The kindergarten, too, with its attempts to guide children's interests and ideas in definite directions, is an institution about which he has his doubts. There is something highly refreshing in what we read about the “kindergarten child” (by which is meant the child of from three to seven years old). We gain a vivid impression of the wealth and activity which human nature exhibits when it un- folds itself under favourable conditions, and of the many possibilities which it includes. But for the teacher and the educator, the problem is so much the greater if he is so to order his instruction and his education as to bring to perfection, and if possible to surpass, what nature thus offers spontaneously— if, indeed, he is simply to avoid spoiling what has already unfolded itself. I am convinced that the indefatigable observer and enthusiastic educationist who has written these books will find comprehending and interested readers in other languages besides that of his Homeland. HARALD HØFFDING. CARLSBERG, NEAR COPENHAGEN, 23rd April 1920.