Explain the principles and application of the following philosophers' theories to the modern ECDE in Kenya.

​Principles and application Of following philosopher's theories to the modern ECDE in Kenya .

Friedrieh Wilhelm Froebel. (1782 — 1852)

• A German educationalist known as the originator of the 'Kindergarten System'. He encouraged the creation of educational environment that involved practical work and the direct use of materials. He insisted on the essence of play. His concern was the teaching of young children through educational games in the family. Friedrich's philosophy of education is encompassed by the four basic components of: - Free expression - self — activity, creativity, social participation and motor expression. He believed that stimulating voluntary self-activity in the young child is necessary form of pre — school education.
  • Free expression self — activity — especially free play activities, etc.
  • Creativity — Use of materials and language in constructing reality.
  • Social participation — Social interactions and homely environments.
  • Motor expression — Psychomotor activity, fine and gross motor activity learning as opposed to vote learning. 

Maria Montessori. (1870 — 1952)

An Italian doctor, her principles are based on:-

• Respect for the child — Children should be respected as unique being with own educational needs.
• The absorbent mind — Able to absorb learning experiences into their psychology as the way a sponge absorbs water when placed in it.
• Sensitive periods — Children have sensitive when they learn.
• The prepared environment — A child learns best in a rich prepared environment whereby you find a containing variety of play materials like dolls, balls, etc.
• Self — Auto — Education — Children are able to educate themselves Once they are in a rich environment.
• She emphasized on sequential learning of children. Meaning children can learn only so much at a time. Application aspects Of her ideas are found in:-
  •  Child centered learning.
  •  Provision Of attractive play and learning materials.
  •  Absence of teacher's desk.
  •  Lowered chalkboards for children.
  •  Outdoor for outdoor activities.
  •  Children's work done on the floor.