Be fair - read the book in its entirety to absorb its philosophy. A hasty reptilian brain response is neither fair nor intelligent. If you find any aspect of child care repulsive, this attitude of disrespect and repugnance towards a baby/child is sad beyond belief. Your body language will be obvious to the child and make it anxious and make it feel worthless and unloved for itself.
Magda Gerber
As a world-renowned child therapist and infant specialist, Magda was a leader in the field of early childhood education. The seeds for her passion for infant care come from paediatrician Emmi Pikler.
Magda Gerber believed that babies are complete and competent beings from birth and should be treated as such. She believed that parents and caregivers should demonstrate their respect for the child in all interactions and treat them as human beings and not objects.
Emmi Pikler
Pikler's aim was to assure physical and psychic health in infants and young children. She recognised (in the 1930s) that the key to achieving this was through creating secure attachment. She saw that giving respectful care, particularly during times of bodily care, was one of the main tools for achieving this.
RIE approach
RIE aims to view your child as a unique human with their own identity, preferences, and desires. The goal of RIE is to raise a well-rounded, authentic child by adjusting how you interact with them and influence their personality. Trust your infant's capabilities.