Children are amazing, and while I go to places like Princeton and Harvard and Yale, and of course I teach at Columbia, NYU, and that's nice and I love students, but the most fun of all are the real little ones, the young ones.
The quote "Children are amazing, and while I go to places like Princeton and Harvard and Yale, and of course I teach at Columbia, NYU, and that's nice and I love students, but the most fun of all are the real little ones, the young ones." comes from David Dinkins, the 106th Mayor of New York City. In this statement, Dinkins reflects on his experiences in education and his appreciation for children, particularly the younger ones. He acknowledges the prestige of teaching at universities like Princeton, Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and NYU, institutions known for their academic rigor, but he expresses that the most enjoyable part of his teaching career is engaging with younger children.
Dinkins highlights that while teaching at elite institutions is fulfilling, the joy and fun he finds in working with "real little ones"—young children—brings him the greatest satisfaction. This suggests that he values the innocence, curiosity, and directness that often characterize younger students, finding their engagement and learning processes particularly rewarding.
The quote emphasizes a contrast between the formal, structured environment of prestigious universities and the more spontaneous and genuine energy of teaching younger children. Dinkins shows that while higher education has its importance and appeal, there is something uniquely special about interacting with young ones, whose learning experience is fresh and full of potential.
In summary, David Dinkins’ quote reflects his appreciation for both the prestige of teaching at major academic institutions and the joy he finds in working with young children. It highlights the importance of nurturing young minds and the fulfillment that comes from teaching children, whose enthusiasm and development bring a different kind of reward compared to the more academic environment of universities.
NKNam91 Kaka
It’s so heartening to hear someone speak with such affection for young learners. I’m curious—has Dinkins ever spoken more about what those interactions have taught him personally? Sometimes it feels like children are the best teachers in terms of perspective and humility. His tone here suggests that even amidst prestigious institutions, it’s the youngest voices that leave the deepest mark.
KCTran Kieu Chinh
This quote makes me reflect on how different the energy must be between teaching toddlers and lecturing college students. I wonder if the 'fun' he mentions is also about unpredictability—kids say and do the most unexpected things, which probably keeps teaching fresh and lively. Do you think more academics should step outside their usual classrooms once in a while?
DPNguyen Dac Phong
There’s a lot to admire in how he elevates the importance of early childhood experiences despite having such impressive academic credentials. Do you think our culture tends to undervalue early childhood educators compared to university professors? Dinkins’ enthusiasm seems like a subtle argument for giving more recognition to the people who shape minds from the very beginning.
MHNguyen manh Hung
His comment raises an interesting question: could more accomplished educators benefit from spending time with younger children? It seems like the energy, spontaneity, and imagination of little kids might offer a refreshing contrast to the often rigid, structured atmosphere of higher education. Maybe early learners remind us why teaching matters in the first place.
BHVan binh Ho
I love that David Dinkins finds so much joy in engaging with young children. It makes me curious—what is it about that age group that feels more 'fun' compared to older students? Is it the lack of cynicism or just the raw enthusiasm they bring to learning? There’s something really beautiful about finding inspiration in the purest learners.