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Because the child must have a valuable thing which is…

“Because the child must have a valuable thing which is called imagination. The child must have a secret world in which live things that never were. It is necessary that she believe. She must start out believing in things not of this world. Then when the world becomes too ugly for living in, the…” quote by Betty Smith
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“Because the child must have a valuable thing which is called imagination. The child must have a secret world in which live things that never were. It is necessary that she believe. She must start out believing in things not of this world. Then when the world becomes too ugly for living in, the child can reach back and live in her imagination.”

Betty Smith

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates nurturing a child’s imagination as a refuge and creative source when reality is harsh.

In simple terms: Imagination protects children from a bleak world.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate and protect imaginative play.

Themes

imagination resilience childhood

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • parenting
  • mental health
  • artistic expression

Key Concepts

creative thinking psychological safety

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can imagination be balanced with reality?
  • What practices nurture healthy imagination?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on fantasy may hinder coping skills.

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