“The training of children is a profession, where we must know how to waste time in order to save it.”
- June 28, 1712 – July 2, 1778
- Born in Geneva
- Philosopher, political philosopher, writer, composer
- He advocated popular sovereignty in “The Social Contract” and influenced the French Revolution and modern democracy.
Quote
“The training of children is a profession, where we must know how to waste time in order to save it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Jean-Jacques Rousseau reflects on the nature of education and the unique approach required when it comes to raising children. He suggests that in the process of teaching and nurturing children, one must be willing to “waste time”—meaning that there may be moments of patience, repetition, or seemingly unproductive activities that ultimately contribute to long-term learning and development. By investing this time upfront in a thoughtful and patient manner, we can save time later in the child’s life, as the child will have learned the skills, values, and discipline necessary to navigate the world more effectively. Rousseau’s point is that, in education, deliberate pauses, slower progress, and gentle guidance often lead to greater efficiency and success in the long run.
Historically, Rousseau’s thoughts on education are connected to his revolutionary ideas in Emile, or On Education, where he critiques traditional forms of schooling and calls for a more natural approach to teaching. He believed that children should not be subjected to rigid, memorization-based instruction but instead allowed to learn through experience, with adults providing careful guidance. The idea of “wasting time” in the sense of taking time to foster curiosity, emotional growth, and practical skills is in line with his belief that education should be adapted to the child’s developmental needs, rather than rushing them through formalized systems of learning.
In modern times, Rousseau’s statement about wasting time to save time in education remains relevant, especially in the context of today’s fast-paced world where there is often pressure to accelerate learning outcomes. Whether in early childhood development or formal schooling, there is increasing recognition that quality education requires time, patience, and focus on individual growth, rather than simply rushing through tasks or focusing on instant results. Rousseau’s insight is a reminder that in the training of children, taking time to foster deep understanding, build relationships, and support emotional and social development ultimately saves time in the form of well-rounded, capable, and thoughtful individuals.
