THE KINDER GARTEN.

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume IX, Issue 920, 23 February 1881, Page 5

THE KINDER GARTEN.

(From the Australasian). About 30 years ago a new system of teaching young children was introduced into Germany by Dr. Froebel, called the “ Kinder Garten.” The distinguishing feature of the system is that books are dispensed with, and the teaching consists of a series of object lessons conveyed by means of toys. The most natural occupation for a child of tender years (say between the ages of four and seven) doubtless is to play, and it is upon this principle the Kinder Garten system is based. The children are not made to ponder for long weary hours over books in the effort to acquire lessons by rote, every word of which they will probably forget four and twenty hours afterwards, but they are allowed to play, and taught how to play so as to derive instruction from their amusements, and by childish toys and methods to develope their own ideas, and prepare their minds for the reception of others. Toys are given them of the simplest character, and they are taught how to use them in such a way that, without any suspicion that they are doing anything but amusing themselves, they may learn lessons in modelling, geometrical drawing, architecture, arithmetic, fancy needlework, &c. Combined with this are songs and games. Not the least merit of the system is that it affords scope for the development of the physical as well as of the intellectual faculties. The children are not kept all day in a sedentary position, but are freely exercised in marching and drilling. Froebel, as is well-known, had a great love for children, and his system is based on a recognition of their physical and mental capabilities. In 1854 the system was introduced into England, and was very favorably reported on by the Rev. M. Mitchell, H. M. Inspector of Schools. Some years ago Kinder Garten schools were established in New South Wales and South Australia, and in the former Colony they are still in successful operation' We are glad to learn that it is now proposed to give the system a trial in Victoria. Miss Vaughan, of Walsh-streef, South Yarra, who spent two terms in studying the Kinder Garten system in London, under the superintendence of Charlotte Althans, and has received the most flattering testimonials to her ability, announces her intention of opening a. class for boys and girls at her private residence on the Ist February. She has a complete set of toys which she brought with her from London,, and her efforts to establish the Kinder-Garten system in Victoria ought to be crowned with success.