The 6 Basic Necessities of Learning, According to Fred Rogers

As the pandemic continues to keep children home from school and out of their routines, many adults might be concerned about whether the children in their care are getting the kind of learning and stimulation they need to continue to develop and grow.

In 1983, Fred Rogers and Barry Head considered this question and introduced six basic necessities of learning. This list reminds that what children need for learning is simple and deep…

1. a sense of self-worth,

2. a sense of trust,

3. curiosity,

4. the capacity to look and listen carefully,

5. the capacity to play, and

6. times of solitude.

These are not only critical for children, but they are important for grown-ups too! Click here to find a printable from the Fred Rogers Center with ideas about each of these basic necessities.