Jose Rizal's Early Childhood

Rizal's Early Childhood Memories

• Rizal's first memory was of his happy days in the family garden at the age of three.
• As a frail and sickly child, Rizal was given tender care by his parents.
• His father built a small nipa cottage in the garden for him to play in during the daytime.
• A kind old woman, an AYA, was employed to look after his comfort.
• At times, Rizal was left alone to explore nature and play by himself.

Observations and Interests

• At three years old, Rizal watched and listened to various birds, including the culilan, maya, culae, maria-capra, martin, and pipit, and was fascinated by their twilight songs.
• Rizal developed an enduring interest in legends and folklore from the stories told by the aya.
• He also enjoyed the daily Angelus Prayer and the nightly rosary with his family.

Parenting and Imagination

• The aya told Rizal and his siblings stories about fairies, buried treasure, and trees blooming with diamonds.
• These tales sparked Rizal's imagination and creativity.
• The aya also used stories of mythical creatures, such as the asuang, nuno, tigbalang, and a bearded and turbaned Bombay, to encourage Rizal to eat his supper.