Teaching in Higher Ed Lessons in Love and Learning from Mr. Rogers’ Legacy
Jul 17, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Jennifer Baumgartner, a Professor of early childhood education and an Inquiry Education Fellow at the Fred Rogers Institute, shares her insights on Mr. Rogers' teachings. She highlights the importance of love, slow living, and addressing difficult topics with children as foundational elements in education. Baumgartner emphasizes that anything mentionable is manageable, urging educators to create environments of trust and curiosity. The conversation reveals how Mr. Rogers' legacy can profoundly shape both childhood learning and higher education.
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Mr. Rogers' Comforting Presence
- Jennifer Baumgartner recalls Mr. Rogers as a comforting presence especially after her father's death when she was four.
- She vividly remembers how she turned off the TV before the show ended to keep the comforting space intact.
Love as Education Foundation
- Love was the foundation of Fred Rogers' work and life, centered on respect and understanding.
- His love was about entering into relationships, not romantic love, but deep human connection.
Addressing Difficult Topics
- Fred Rogers addressed difficult and political topics on his show, believing "anything that's mentionable is manageable."
- Early episodes subtly referenced social issues, helping children and families engage with complex topics.
