The Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE) approach to infant care is a philosophy that emphasizes respect and authenticity in interactions with young children. Founded by Magda Gerber and Thomas Forrest in 1978, RIE has become a widely recognized method for fostering healthy development in infants and toddlers. This article explores the core principles and practices of the RIE approach.
Core Principles of RIE
At the heart of the RIE approach is the belief that infants are
competent beings from birth. This philosophy encourages parents and caregivers to treat infants as active participants in their own development. RIE advocates for showing respect for a baby's experience, which includes talking to them in a clear, simple way without resorting to "baby talk."
The RIE approach is built on several key principles, including basic trust in the child to be an initiator, an explorer, and a self-learner. It emphasizes the importance of providing an environment that is physically safe, cognitively challenging, and emotionally nurturing. Time for uninterrupted play and freedom to explore and interact with other infants are also central to the RIE philosophy.
Practices and Techniques
RIE practices involve sensitive observation of the child to understand their needs and involve them in all caregiving activities. This allows the child to be an active participant rather than a passive recipient. Parents are encouraged to interpret cries as communication rather than alarms and to create a safe, quiet environment filled with simple toys that promote active imaginations.
The approach advises against the use of objects considered disrespectful to a baby, such as sippy cups, high chairs, baby gyms, baby carriers, baby swaddles, and baby walkers. Instead, parents practicing RIE tell their children what they are doing with them and why, such as asking if they can pick them up and pausing so the child can be prepared.
Global Influence and Adoption
The RIE approach has gained international recognition and is practiced in various countries around the world. It has been adopted by Early Head Start programs in the United States, and RIE teaching materials are used in federally funded programs for families with infants and toddlers.
RIE offers classes for parents and their infants and toddlers, as well as a certificate program for parents and professionals in the Educaring Approach. The approach has found its way into diverse cultures, uniting them in their appreciation of the rights and integrity of infants and young children.
The philosophy of RIE, as explained in the book "Baby Knows Best" by Deborah Carlisle Solomon, is described as "a kinder, gentler, slowed down way of parenting." It encourages parents to treat their children as active participants rather than passive objects, fostering self-confidence, self-reliance, and cooperation in children.
