Childhood Quote by Henry Home, Lord Kames
“An infallible way to make your child miserable is to satisfy all his demands. Passion swells by gratification; and the impossibility of satisfying every one of his demands will oblige you to stop short at last, after he has become a little headstrong.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on the Principles of Morality and Politics, 1760
Demanding a child's every wish creates entitlement, leading to frustration and defiance when limits are finally imposed.
In simple terms: Always giving in makes kids resistant when you stop.
Set healthy boundaries early.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parent‑child relationships
- education
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance nurturing and discipline?
- What long‑term effects does overindulgence have?
Limits must be consistent and age‑appropriate, or they may cause rebellion.