There is a period for training children, and a time for educating youth. And it is essential that both of these be combined in a great degree in the schools. Children may be trained for the service of sin or for the service of righteousness. The early education of youth shapes their character in this life, and in their religious life. Solomon says: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” [ Proverbs 22:6 .] This language is positive. The training which Solomon enjoins is to direct, educate, and develop. In order for parents and teachers to do this work, they must themselves understand the way the child should go. This embraces more than merely having a knowledge of books. It takes in everything that is good, virtuous, righteous, and holy. It comprehends the practice of temperance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love to God, and to each other. In order to attain to this object, the physical, mental, moral, and religious education of…
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Ellen White directly references Proverbs 22:6 in this passage.