Magda Gerber

Magda Gerber was a Hungarian-American early childhood educator and infant specialist.

She developed the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) approach to childcare, which emphasizes respect for infants as capable individuals.

Magda Gerber founded the RIE organization in Los Angeles in 1978, aiming to promote her philosophy of observing and supporting babies' natural development.

Her ideas were influenced by pediatrician Dr. Emmi Pikler's work with orphaned children in post-World War II Hungary.

Gerber's approach focuses on allowing infants to explore and learn at their own pace in safe environments, with minimal adult intervention.

Her teachings have influenced many parents and childcare professionals, though some of her ideas remain controversial in the field of early childhood education.