Our Enemy the Child

"Our Enemy the Child" is a seminal exploration of the American educational landscape during the early 20th century, penned by advocate and journalist Agnes De Lima. This provocative work serves as both a critique of the rigid, standardized schooling methods of the era and an impassioned plea for the implementation of progressive educational practices. De Lima examines the inherent conflict between traditional institutional structures and the natural, creative impulses of the developing child, arguing that the existing system often treats the student as an adversary to be conquered rather than a potential to be nurtured.Through detailed observations and analysis, the book documents the emergence of "new schools" that prioritize student autonomy, experiential learning, and the psychological well-being of the individual. By contrasting the stifling atmosphere of conventional classrooms with the vibrant, engaged environments of experimental programs, De Lima highlights the transformative power of child-centered pedagogy. This work remains a significant historical document for those interested in the evolution of modern teaching methods and the enduring debate over the purpose of public education. It offers timeless insights into the necessity of respecting the child's spirit and fostering an environment where curiosity and discovery can thrive.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Pages: 308, Hardcover, Tradd Street Press