Gentle Measures: Renowned 19th Century Educator Discusses Effective Sympathetic Methods of Managing Children and Developing Their Mental and Moral Capacities

Jacob Abbott, highly respected educator and social activist, wrote over 200 works for and about children. Yet this amazing oeuvre has been almost entirely forgotten. His most important work, GENTLE MEASURES, originally published in 1871, became one of the most widely-read books on parenting. This wonderful volume, out of print for many years, is now available in a new edition. It brings Abbott's insight and sympathetic consideration once again to the public, and sheds light on long-misunderstood aspects of Victorian child-rearing. Abbott's historical ?location? assures us of a fresh view. His great intellect, his careful measured tones, his humanitarian concern, all come through to us today across the divide of time. Indeed, this book is part of a large store of undervalued American literature, that still has much to say to the present generation. Written by an outstanding observer of human nature, this work will give parents and teachers a new perspective on the interactions between adults and children.The question of using force in discipline always arises when trying to effectively deal with the ?irrational? child. How can we respect the desires and wishes of children, while still guiding them into positive and constructive behaviour? Experts of our day have voiced various opinions on the issue, with but one general agreement, that extreme authoritarian or overbearing methods should be avoided. But then what will we do, when children obstinately refuse to listen and cooperate?An objective historical investigation of the literature on child-rearing would show that parents and teachers throughout the generations have had to create strategies in dealing with challenges. Inappropriate conduct in children, arising from inattentiveness or willfulness, is, it might be remembered, nothing new. Abbott, who lived long before the field of child psychology was established, developed a deep understanding of the mind of the child, in order to find efficient ways to nurture healthy, capable, and responsible attitudes. Quite simply, he wanted to see the world through the child's own eyes. Abbott strongly opposed the view that ?moral guidance? is essentially a set of rigid instructions, issued without feeling or consideration or individualized accommodation. For him, teaching was a rewarding interactive experience, needing careful planning. In line with such an approach, this book contains detailed discussions on numerous varied issues, including child temperament; overactivity; incentives; illness; allowances; and religious education. GENTLE MEASURES recommends easily understood and practical techniques, based on a unique combination of professional practice and time-tested wisdom. Many charming but instructive stories of mothers and children are used to illustrate the points made.Abbott, Jacob is the author of 'Gentle Measures: Renowned 19th Century Educator Discusses Effective Sympathetic Methods of Managing Children and Developing Their Mental and Moral Capacities' with ISBN 9781932490220 and ISBN 1932490221.