Affair Quote by Alice Meynell
“Play is not for every hour of the day, or for any hour taken at random. There is a tide in the affairs of children. Civilization is cruel in sending them to bed at the most stimulating time of dusk.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “The Tide” by Alice Meynell, 1900
Children need play at specific times; forcing them to stop when they are most engaged harms their natural rhythm.
In simple terms: Play should match children's natural energy peaks.
Respect children's natural play rhythms.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting
- school scheduling
- after‑school programs
- family routines
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can adults identify optimal play times for children?
- What are the consequences of disrupting natural play rhythms?
Not all moments suit play; balance with rest and other duties.