Arms Quote by Elizabeth Cady Stanton
“If we buy a plant of a horticulturist we ask him many questions as to its needs, whether it thrives best in sunshine or in shade, whether it needs much or little water, what degrees of heat or cold; but when we hold in our arms for the first time a being of infinite possibilities, in whose wisdom may rest the destiny of a nation, we take it for granted that the laws governing its life, health, and happiness are intuitively understood, that there is nothing new to be learned in regard to it.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address on Education and Equality, 1869
The quote contrasts caring for a plant with nurturing a child, stressing that a child's complex needs are often oversimplified despite their profound potential.
In simple terms: Children’s needs are complex, not obvious.
Recognize and learn the unique needs of each child.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting workshops
- school curricula
- policy making
- community programs
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we better understand a child’s individual needs?
- What role does societal expectation play in childre?
Assuming intuition suffices can neglect essential support.