Links to Humanism Theory

Humanism is ‘an orientation or philosophy that recognises the uniqueness of human beings and the qualities of life that contribute to our humanity’ (Krause et al, 2010, p. 230). The theory is used to ‘heighten our awareness of teaching as an art to be undertaken by caring individuals committed to helping their students to succeed in the difficult process of growing up’ (Krause et al, 2010, p.252). Because children are all so different they can approach aspects of life and learning differently, as teachers we need to respect this and be open to each child’s uniqueness and help them understand and not control them. Carl Rogers believed in the importance of freedom and choice and believed education should provide a nurturing environment where learners can follow their interests (Krause, 2010). By allowing children in an early childhood setting the opportunity to play rough gives them the freedom to follow their emerging interests as well as supporting their wellbeing positively.