Activity Quote by David Elkind
“If it is to be done well, child-rearing requires, more than most activities of life, a good deal of decentering from one's own needs and perspectives. Such decentering is relatively easy when a society is stable and when there is an extended, supportive structure that the parent can depend upon.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power of Play, David Elkind, 2007
Raising children well demands setting aside personal desires and seeing the world from the child's viewpoint, which is easier with societal stability and supportive networks.
In simple terms: Parenting needs self‑lessness and perspective‑taking, helped by community support.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize the child's perspective over your own needs.
Themes
parenting
empathy
community
development
selflessness
Mood
reflective
compassionate
Type
advice
psychological
When to use this quote
- family life
- childcare settings
- parenting workshops
- community programs
Key Concepts
psychology
developmental theory
social support
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you build a support network for parenting?
- What personal needs can you safely set aside?
A Different Perspective
Without stable support, parents may struggle to decenter, leading to burnout.
