As children's inquiries are not to be slighted, so also…
“As children's inquiries are not to be slighted, so also great care is to be taken, that they never receive deceitful and illuding answers. They easily perceive when they are slighted or deceived, and quickly learn the trick of neglect, dissimulation, and falsehood, which they observe others to make use of. We are not to intrench upon truth in any conversation, but least of all with children; since, if we play false with them, we not only deceive their expectation, and hinder their knowledge, but corrupt their innocence, and teach them the worst of vices.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Children must be answered honestly; lying to them harms trust, learning, and moral development.
In simple terms: Tell children truthfully to protect trust and growth.
Key Takeaway
Never lie to children.
Themes
honesty
education
trust
morality
child development
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
advice
ethical
When to use this quote
- parent‑child talks
- school teaching
- disciplinary guidance
- media content foradvice
Key Concepts
ethics
psychology
pedagogy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does honesty shape a child's view of authority?
- What are the long‑term effects of early deception?
A Different Perspective
Children may become skeptical and distrustful if deceived.