O Parents, Teachers, and all such Instructors, Permit them learn. Each mind is thirsty-eager. If never blamed, nor scolded, nor negated; No single “No!” nor “Wrong” to leave confusion; No disapproving frown to mar affection; Each grows more thirsty and more eager always.
A little at one time is knowledge’s portion And that related to things known already. No more until the last has been digested, Related, understood, communicated Back in the learner’s words to the instructor. Without this nothing justifies proceeding.
Once understood, new portion offered swiftly Lest boredom’s tarnish dull the mind’s quicksilver. Banish all tests, all grades, all kinds of ratings. These only rate environment and teacher And much confuse the learner about learning.
Love openly and well the eager learners And twice as much the ones whose hurts prevent them. Loved and approved, they’ll find a way to discharge. Then let them weep and shake and laugh and temper, And treasure the keenness of the minds emerging.