This quote emphasizes the importance of early childhood education and the fundamental role it plays in shaping an individual’s future. According to this perspective, the most crucial learning and development happens in the “nursery” or during the early years of a person’s life. This period is when the foundation for a person’s character, values, and basic understanding of the world is formed.
The term “proper training” suggests that it’s not just about imparting knowledge, but also about instilling the right values, attitudes, habits, and skills. It implies that education should be holistic, focusing not just on intellectual development but also on emotional, social, and moral development.
Applying this idea in today’s world, it underscores the importance of investing in quality early childhood education. It suggests that societies should prioritize resources, efforts, and policies towards improving pre-school education. This could involve training qualified early childhood educators, developing effective early learning programs, and ensuring access to quality early education for all children, regardless of their socio-economic background.
On a personal level, it highlights the role of parents and caregivers as the first educators of a child. It suggests that parents should be conscious about the kind of environment and experiences they provide to their children, as these will significantly influence their future learning and development. This could mean engaging children in stimulating activities, encouraging curiosity and creativity, and teaching them about values and social skills.
In terms of personal development, the quote suggests that the habits, attitudes, and values we develop early in life significantly influence our success and growth. It implies that it’s never too early to start learning and developing oneself. It might also suggest that individuals who want to change or improve certain aspects of themselves might need to reflect on their early experiences and possibly unlearn or relearn certain things.