What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
A child hasn't a grown-up person's appetite for affection. A little of it goes a long way with them; and they like a good imitation of it better than the real thing, as every nurse knows.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Children value affection more simply and directly than adults do.
This quote by George Bernard Shaw highlights the differences between the affection needs of children and adults. It suggests that children do not require or seek the same depth or intensity of affection as adults; instead, small gestures of affection can be profoundly impactful for them. The quote also hints at the idea that children can react positively to simple expressions of love and may sometimes prefer these over more complex or genuine emotions that adults might expect.
Themes
ChildAffectionRelationshipsEmotional NeedsParenting
In practice
Example use cases
In a parenting workshop, a speaker might refer to this quote to emphasize the importance of simple gestures in bonding with children.
More from George Bernard Shaw
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
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Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
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Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
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