Which educational philosophy emphasizes physical development and hygiene over traditional academic subjects like the 3 R's?

Naturalism is the educational philosophy that emphasizes physical development and hygiene as fundamental to a person's education, often prioritizing these aspects over traditional academic subjects such as reading, writing, and arithmetic (the "3 R's"). This philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should align with the natural development of a child and that experiences in the natural world are integral to learning.

Naturalists advocate for an education that fosters physical well-being and health, suggesting that a robust body can lead to a more capable mind. This emphasis on physical education, outdoor activities, and hygienic practices reflects a holistic view of learning, where emotional and physical well-being are seen as vital to successful education.

While other philosophies may touch on aspects of physical development or hygiene, they are often more concerned with intellectual or social dimensions. For instance, pragmatism focuses on experiential learning and practical problem-solving, humanism emphasizes the development of the whole person including emotional and social facets, and reconstructionism seeks to address social injustices through education. In contrast, naturalism's primary focus on physicality distinctly aligns it with the idea of prioritizing hygiene and physical development in the educational context.