How we cite our quotes: Stephanus pagination (the standardized way in which every text of Plato is divided). Every edition and translation will have this pagination in the margins.
Quote #7
"Therefore the man who is really a lover of learning must from youth on strive as intensely as possible for every kind of truth." (485d)
Like any meaningful education, Socrates stresses that philosophy is no cakewalk: it's an intense lifelong commitment that begins in childhood and takes dedication and persistence to pursue throughout your life. Nothing good comes easily, right?
Quote #8
"Haven't you noticed that all opinions without knowledge are ugly? The best of them are blind." (506c)
The fact that Socrates uses such vivid images here—of both ugliness and blindness—to describe the effect of opinion shows just how strongly he feels about making sure opinions are backed by knowledge.
Quote #9
"Isn't it one great precaution not to let [future philosophers] taste of arguments while they are young? I suppose you aren't unaware that when lads get their first taste of them, they misuse them as though it were play..." (539b)
If argumentation is going to be an effective method for encouraging wisdom, young children can't be allowed to abuse it. Instead of wanting to expose children to this practice early, Socrates advocates for saving it for later. He doesn't want them to just imitate what they're seeing; he wants them to really understand the point of what they're doing.