Rainbow Nannies wants to share with Parents and Nannies what we believe to be an incredible resource about infants.
RIE® stands for Resources for infant Educarers; which actually covers the first three years of your child’s life. The Educaring® Approach teaches us to view life through the eyes of a child; and can be used by Parents, Nannies; and Babysitters.
The RIE® philosophy was developed by world-renowned child therapist and infant specialist, Magda Gerber. She developed this revolutionary philosophy of infant care based on treating infants with respect and trust in their abilities to develop naturally at their own pace.
RIE® is totally based on respectful parenting; and to fully understand RIE®, one would have to practice the approach with conviction and passion. Magda Gerber explained that RIE® emphasizes observation, less interference, free play, listening with your ears (not your mouth) and watching with your eyes– without getting in the way.
Having a gentle presence will allow your baby to thrive in a natural way. As parents, we overstimulate our children with lots of unnecessary noise, toys with bells and whistles, assistance when not needed; and many other distractions that take away from their natural learning ability.
Infants process the world around them through exploration, discovery, and movement. In our society we think that an infant completely needs our help. It is quite the contrary. We actually can step aside and observe their world with them, not for them. Unknowingly, we contribute greatly to their dependence on us. RIE® infants need plenty of organic stimulation and space, to move freely in a safe, protected environment.
The key ingredient to the Educaring® Approach message is: ‘”Respect”. Respect encompasses an array of truths. Respecting your baby means, refraining from interference, allowing them the freedom to explore, wonder, and your understanding who they are as little person, encouraging active involvement, observation; and consistency (security, setting limits, boundaries and predictable routines). By implementing this approach, you make life easier and more relaxed for you and your baby. Your child will become more cooperative, less needy, and more self-sufficient. RIE® babies find intrinsic value in their own development and growth.
One of the great strengths about this approach is that it has its own unique culture of Parents, as well as Nannies. They have embraced the power of independent development without intruding on the process. We are a society of quick, fast, now, and let’s go. However, it is so important to slow down and give choices that are tailored to what infants, and also toddlers, need.
Choices are a significant value in a child’s life. Never give false choices. For example: “Do you want to go to the car wash with mommy?” They have to go whether they want to or not. A true choice would be: “Yogurt or banana?” This way it’s easy; and they get what they want.
Again, it’s about being respectful; and basic trust.
“Believing in your child’s competence and supporting his/(her) authenticity. It is believing that whatever your child needs to know, he/(she) will learn. In this way he/(she) will grow to trust in himself/(herself) and in you. Your child’s curiosity, interest, and readiness are what count, and observation is the key.”
– Magda Gerber
RIE® is also about self-confident babies who are self-learners, initiators, and inventors. Parents and Nannies who follow the RIE® philosophy with their children, will grow gracefully and happily. They will establish meaningful relationships with their parents and Nannies. Remember, your baby is unique and has a built-in development agenda that works very well. Esteem your child for qualities he/she possesses and never try to rush, or hurry any experience, it takes away from the beauty, of quality time.
How fun it is to grow together, and share these value moments. The RIE® philosophy is a fundamental truth, that will bring about harmony, and balance in your child’s life; and at the same time in your own life.
If you would like your Nanny to implement the Educaring® Approach while caring for your child, please visit the RIE® Center at rie.org. The RIE® Center in Los Angeles offers wonderful online classes, like “Introduction to Educaring” and the “Nurturing Nanny”.
