Shin Saimdang's Parenting Method

Women Who Lived a Life of Learning in the Joseon Dynasty

Shin Saimdang (申師任堂) was renowned as a painter during the early Joseon period. Later, she became widely known as the mother of Yulgok Yi I (李珥), whose scholarship had a profound impact on the late Joseon era. When Joseon replaced Goryeo and established Confucianism as its governing ideology, the status of women declined compared to previous eras. Shin Saimdang was no exception, but thanks to her father’s strong support, she was able to explore various fields and receive an education. Her life itself was a journey of learning and growth, and she passed on those values to her children. Let’s take a closer look at her approach to education.

Shin Saimdang, the Mother of Yulgok Yi I, and Her Works

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Encouraging Good Character with Inspiring Phrases

Shin Saimdang prioritized moral character in her children’s education. She believed that only those with integrity could achieve great things. Even during pregnancy, she strictly followed the prenatal education methods of Tai Ren (太妊), the mother of King Wen of Zhou. To instill good values in her children, she wrote inspiring phrases and placed them in areas where they would frequently see them. When her children read these phrases, they would ask questions, allowing her to naturally turn their home into a place of learning.

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Creating a Daily Schedule Together

Shin Saimdang involved her children in making their daily schedules. She carefully advised them on what to study based on their individual traits. Rather than applying the same approach to all, she recognized their unique needs—her eldest, who was often ill, was encouraged to stay active to regain health, while her second child, who was restless and disliked reading, was guided to study in small, consistent steps. Yulgok, her third child, had exceptional focus and observation skills, so she encouraged him to study extensively. Through these tailored schedules, she helped her children improve their weaknesses and acquire the knowledge they would need in the future.

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Generous Praise for Achievements

When teaching her children, Shin Saimdang focused more on praising their strengths than scolding their shortcomings. Her second son had a quick temper and often got into fights, but instead of reprimanding him harshly, she listened and comforted him. Whenever her children did something well, even if it was minor, she praised them generously. When they made mistakes, she guided them to realize their errors through conversation rather than punishment. If they avoided repeating the same mistakes, she praised them again.

 

Shin Saimdang firmly believed that good character led to great individuals. She practiced prenatal education with a sincere mindset and always led by example, learning first before teaching her children. The reason her children—both sons and daughters—became well-known in Joseon society was her exceptional approach to education.

 

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