Child Quote by Francois Fenelon
“Children are excellent observers, and will often perceive your slightest defects. In general, those who govern children, forgive nothing in them, but everything in themselves”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: “On Education and Governance,” 1685
Children notice flaws in adults; leaders must be forgiving of children but critical of themselves.
In simple terms: Children see our flaws; leaders should self‑reflect.
Practice humility.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parenting
- teaching
- policy making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal flaws have you noticed through others?
- How can leaders model humility?
May overgeneralize child behavior.