Child Quote by Katrina Kenison
““It's easy, given the times we live in and the implicit messages we absorb each day, to equeate a good life with having a lot and doing a lot. So it's also easy to fall into believing that our children, if they are to succeed in life, need to be terrific at everything, and that it's up to us to make sure that they are-to keep them on track through tougher course loads, more activities, more competitive sports, more summer programs. But in all our well-intentioned efforts to do the right thing for our children, we may be failing to provide them with something that is truly essential-the time and space they need to wake up to themselves, to grow acquainted with their own innate gifts, to dream their dreams and discover their true natures.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Parenting conference, 2021
The quote warns that over‑scheduling children under the guise of success deprives them of time for self‑discovery and personal growth.
In simple terms: Too many activities block kids from finding themselves.
Key Takeaway
Give children unstructured time to explore.
Themes
parenting
education
well‑being
Mood
concerned
reflective
Type
advice
reflective
When to use this quote
- family life
- school planning
- after‑school programs
- holiday time
- personal hobbies
Key Concepts
self‑actualization
balance
intrinsic motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you create space for your child’s own interests?
- What signs show a child is overwhelmed?
A Different Perspective
Excessive structure can also limit exposure to diverse experiences and social learning.
