29 Quotes by Magda Gerber

I wish children could grow according to their natural pace: sleep when sleepy, wake up when rested, eat when hungry, cry when upset, play and explore without being unnecessarily interrupted; in other words, be allowed to grow and blossom as each was meant to.

Set aside predictable, regular times to give full attention without being distracted by other concerns while also creating a safe, familiar place for baby to spend time playing alone.

Wouldn’t life be easier for both parents and infants if parents would observe, relax and enjoy what their child is doing, rather than keep teaching what the child is not yet capable of?

The way we care for our babies is how they experience our love.

If infants are ready to do something, they will do it. In fact, when they are ready, they have to do it.

What infants need is the opportunity and time to take in and figure out the world around them.

Focus on quality and ease of movement, not on the age a milestone is accomplished.

Children do not play because they learn; They play because they play.

As I say so often, “Observe and wait.” Sometimes you may even find out that what you believed the infant wanted was only your assumption. It is natural to make mistakes and easy to misunderstand pre-verbal children. Nevertheless, it is important to keep trying.